David Altshuler (physician)

American geneticist and physician

David Altshuler is an American geneticist and physician known for his contributions to the field of genomics and his role in the discovery of genetic variants associated with common diseases. He is a prominent figure in the field of personalized medicine and has held significant positions in both academia and the biotechnology industry.

Early life and education

David Altshuler was born in the United States. He pursued his undergraduate studies at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he developed an interest in genetics and molecular biology. He went on to earn his M.D. and Ph.D. degrees from Harvard University, where he trained in both medicine and genetics.

Career

Academic career

David Altshuler at Vertex

David Altshuler began his academic career at Harvard Medical School, where he served as a professor of genetics and medicine. He was also a founding member of the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, where he played a key role in the development of large-scale genomic studies. His research focused on identifying genetic variants that contribute to common diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer.

Contributions to genomics

Altshuler was a leading figure in the International HapMap Project, which aimed to develop a haplotype map of the human genome to identify genetic variants associated with disease. His work in this area has been instrumental in advancing our understanding of the genetic basis of complex diseases and has paved the way for the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.

Industry career

In 2014, David Altshuler joined Vertex Pharmaceuticals as the Executive Vice President of Global Research and Chief Scientific Officer. At Vertex, he has been involved in the development of innovative therapies for serious diseases, including cystic fibrosis and other genetic disorders. His leadership has been crucial in advancing the company's research and development efforts.

Awards and honors

David Altshuler has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the field of genetics and medicine. He is a member of the National Academy of Sciences and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. His work has been recognized with several prestigious awards, highlighting his impact on the field of genomics and personalized medicine.

Related pages

• Genomics
• Personalized medicine
• Broad Institute
• Vertex Pharmaceuticals