Walter Jörn

Walter Jörn is a Full Professor and Chair of Genetics at Saarland University since 2000. He holds a PhD from the Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics (MPI-MG) and has held postdoctoral positions at the MPI-MG and Babraham Institute (UK). His research focuses on epigenetics, including DNA methylation, reprogramming mechanisms, and genomic imprinting. He pioneered technologies for epigenetic mapping and discovered global demethylation in mouse zygotes. As a leader in international consortia like IHEC and DEEP, he coordinates large-scale epigenomic initiatives. He serves on the DFG Life Sciences Panel and advises the German Ministry of Science.

• Educations: PhD (MPI-MG Berlin), postdocs at MPI-MG and Babraham Institute

Research interests span epigenetic reprogramming, transgene silencing, and single-cell omics. He co-founded the International Human Epigenome Consortium (IHEC) and led EU programs like BLUEPRINT and SYSCID. Awards include roles in national and international research advisory boards.

• Awards: German Research Council roles, Berlin Brandenburg Academy task force membership

Coordinates DEEP and LifeTime initiatives, advancing epigenomic technologies and systems biology. Active in policy advising and interdisciplinary collaborations across Europe.