Keith R. Yamamoto

Dr. Keith R. Yamamoto serves as Vice Chancellor for Science Policy and Strategy and Director of Precision Medicine at the University of California San Francisco School of Medicine. A foundational faculty member since 1973, he chaired the Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology from 1994-2003 and is internationally recognized for pioneering work on intracellular receptor signaling mechanisms.

His educational trajectory includes:

• B.Sc. in Biochemistry and Biophysics from Iowa State University (1968)
• Ph.D. in Biochemical Sciences from Princeton University (1973)
• Postdoctoral training in Molecular Biology at UCSF (1973-1975)

Dr. Yamamoto's research revolutionized understanding of glucocorticoid receptor function in gene regulation, revealing how steroid hormones control transcription through dynamic protein complexes. His current work bridges molecular mechanisms with national science policy, addressing precision medicine implementation and biomedical workforce development through leadership roles including AAAS Presidency (2022).

Recent publications demonstrate dual expertise in nuclear receptor biochemistry and systemic research infrastructure reform, with influential Science and Nature Medicine commentaries shaping data-sharing policies and career pathways for trainees.

His exceptional contributions are recognized by:

• Election to National Academy of Sciences (1989) and Institute of Medicine (2004)
• The Endocrine Society's Edwin B. Astwood Award (2012)
• UCSF's Faculty Research Lecturer honor (1997)
• AAAS presidency following election as Fellow (2003)

As a dedicated mentor, he received UCSF's Postdoctoral Scholar Mentorship Award (2012) while securing continuous NIH funding since 1976 through landmark grants including R01CA020535 (Gene Regulation by Steroid Receptors, 1976-2018) and DP7OD018420 (Motivating INformed Decisions workforce initiative). His leadership extends to directing UCSF's precision medicine initiatives and advising national research enterprise reforms.