Neil Brockdorff

Neil Brockdorff is a prominent geneticist and molecular biologist known for his significant contributions to the field of X-chromosome inactivation. He is currently a professor at the University of Oxford and a group leader at the MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine.

Early Life and Education[edit | edit source]

Neil Brockdorff was born and raised in the United Kingdom. He pursued his undergraduate studies in Biochemistry at the University of London, after which he moved to the University of Cambridge for his doctoral studies. He completed his PhD in Molecular Biology under the guidance of renowned geneticist Dr. John Gurdon.

Career and Research[edit | edit source]

After completing his PhD, Brockdorff moved to the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Cambridge, where he began his research on X-chromosome inactivation. His work primarily focuses on the molecular mechanisms that regulate X-chromosome inactivation, a process that equalizes the dosage of X-linked genes between males and females.

Brockdorff's research has led to the discovery of the Xist gene, which plays a crucial role in X-chromosome inactivation. His team was also instrumental in identifying the role of Polycomb group proteins in maintaining the inactive state of the X-chromosome.

In 1995, Brockdorff moved to the University of Oxford where he continues his research on X-chromosome inactivation. He is also a group leader at the MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, where he guides a team of researchers studying the molecular mechanisms of X-chromosome inactivation.

Awards and Honours[edit | edit source]

Brockdorff's significant contributions to the field of genetics and molecular biology have earned him numerous awards and honours. He is a fellow of the Royal Society and a recipient of the Genetics Society Medal.