Thomas R. Cech

Thomas R. Cech is a Professor in the Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Genetics at the University of Colorado. He served as Director of the University of Colorado BioFrontiers Institute from 2009 to 2020 and as President of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute from 2000 to 2009. His research focuses on the process of transcription in cells and telomere biology.

• 1983–present: Professor, University of Colorado
• 2009–2020: Director, University of Colorado BioFrontiers Institute
• 2000–2009: President, Howard Hughes Medical Institute

Education:

• PhD in Chemistry, University of California at Berkeley (1975)

His research explores the structure and function of telomeres and the mechanisms of transcription in the nucleus, contributing to fundamental discoveries in biochemistry and molecular biology.

Scientific Awards and Honors:

• Nobel Prize for Chemistry (1989)
• National Medal of Science (1995)
• Albert Lasker Basic Medical Research Award (1988)
• Heineken Prize for Medicine (1988)
• ACS Pfizer Award (1985)
• CHF Othmer Gold Medal (2007)
• Lifetime Achievement Award, Colorado Bioscience Association (2009)
• Honorary Doctor of Science, Harvard University (2010)
• Honorary Doctor of Science, Rockefeller University (2009)