Jennifer J. Westendorf

Jennifer J. Westendorf, Ph.D., is Professor at Mayo Clinic with primary appointments in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, where she serves as Chair. She leads the Skeletal Development and Regeneration Research Laboratory and directs Mayo's musculoskeletal research training program. Her work focuses on molecular mechanisms of skeletal diseases including osteoarthritis, bone regeneration, and bone cancers.

Dr. Westendorf's research examines:

• Cellular and epigenetic basis of skeletal formation
• Phlpp phosphatases in cartilage preservation
• HDACs in bone marrow regulation
• Novel therapeutics for musculoskeletal disorders

Her publication record shows consistent focus on osteoarthritis mechanisms, bone cell signaling, and skeletal regeneration using advanced mouse models. Recent work explores epigenetic regulators like HDACs and PHLPP phosphatases in joint degeneration.

Awards include:

• Fuller Albright Award (ASBMR, 2009)
• Fellow of ASBMR (2018)
• Women's Leadership Forum Award (2018)
• Distinguished Alumni Award (2022)
• Discovery Science Award (2022-2024)

She mentors trainees through Mayo's musculoskeletal research program and has established initiatives promoting diversity in orthopaedic research. Current NIH-funded projects investigate PHLPP inhibitors for osteoarthritis treatment and pain management.