Department of Human Genetics

First Dedicated Human Genetics Department in the US

Join a cohesive and highly interactive community of investigators with research programs in diverse areas of genetics.

Scientist doing an experiment at the bench

Fostering Scientific Excellence

The Department of Human Genetics is devoted to advancing the fields of genetics and genomics to further our understanding of biology and human disease.

We explore broad areas of genetic research including—but not limited to—genome structure and function, evolutionary and population genetics, developmental genetics, the molecular basis of Mendelian disease, the etiology of complex traits and diseases, and how to effectively interpret and communicate genetic information to improve care in diverse patient populations.

We invite you to explore our inclusive community through our educational programs, groundbreaking research, and diverse events.

Join us! Faculty Applicants | Graduate Student Applicants

Contact Us

Department of Human Genetics

4909 Buhl Building, 1241 E. Catherine St. Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5618

Phone: 734-647-3149

Email: [email protected]

Human Genetics Internal Resources

People

Our faculty, staff and learners are revolutionizing the field of human genetics through research and education.

Education

Our graduate programs include a PhD Program, MS Program in Human Genetics, and MS Program in Genetic Counseling.

Research

Learn about our research in 12 focus areas, like genome structure and population genetics.

About

Learn about our history, mission, leadership, administration, news, and events.

Events

View our full event calendar and seminar listings.

Giving

Support us in remaining at the forefront of the field, transforming medicine for the benefit of all.

Meet Our Community

The Department of Human Genetics Photo Album features our diverse population of graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, faculty, and staff.

group picture of students in front of Medical science building for human genetics

large group of diverse faculty and professors

large group of diverse faculty, students and staff

diverse group of staff members in peony gardens Ann Arbor

girls standing together while some wear UofM sweatshirts

Group photo of human genetics department

group selfie of students outside in the fall weather

two guys standing together and one laughs and points at camera

GCP Graduate Students and their professors

We Train Future Leaders

The Department has a long history of leadership in the field of genetics with a remarkable number of breakthrough research discoveries, an outstanding track record of training scientists and clinicians that have gone on to be leaders themselves, and a cohesive group of faculty, trainees, and staff that are nationally recognized for their work.

— Anthony Antonellis

Chair, Department of Human Genetics

Upcoming Events

See Upcoming Events

2026 KARES Family & Science Conference

2026 KARES Family & Science Conference takes place June 26-28, 2026 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA at the University of Michigan

Event runs June 26, 2026 - June 28, 2026

2026 KARES Family & Science Conference

2026 KARES Family & Science Conference takes place June 26-28, 2026 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA at the University of Michigan

Event runs June 26, 2026 - June 28, 2026

2026 KARES Family & Science Conference

2026 KARES Family & Science Conference takes place June 26-28, 2026 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA at the University of Michigan

Event runs June 26, 2026 - June 28, 2026

DHG Thesis Defense: Sierra Mortimer

Part of the Human Genetics Thesis Defense Seminars

DHG Thesis Defense: Itzaira Mercado-Hernandez

Part of the Human Genetics Thesis Defense Seminars

DHG Thesis Defense: Rebecca Malcore

Part of the Human Genetics Thesis Defense Seminars

Department of Pediatrics & Human Genetics Research Seminar: Gabriel G. Haddad, MD (UCSD)

Part of the Human Genetics Research Seminar Series

Human Genetics Research Seminar Series: Yang Shi, PhD

Part of the Human Genetics Research Seminar Series

Human Genetics Research Seminar Series: Ira Hall, PhD

Part of the Human Genetics Research Seminar Series

Featured News & Stories

See all news

Department News

Explore the Department of Human Genetics Annual Newsletter

We are pleased to share our annual newsletter, featuring departmental milestones from October 2024 through March 2026.

Groups of people stand together. These are the 2026 EBS awardees.

Medical School News

Celebrating outstanding teaching and research at the 2026 Endowment for Basic Sciences Awards

The 2026 Endowment for Basic Sciences Awards recognized nine faculty and nine research staff members for their accomplishments in teaching and research.

Department News

Highlighted Publications: January - May 2026

Department of Human Genetics faculty are involved in widely diverse areas of research, from Genome Structure and Function research to Evolutionary and Population Genetics.

cells floating one looks like an x one looks like a y fuzzy blue vague blue white grey background

Health Lab

The Y chromosome is home to surprising jumping genes

Researchers at Michigan Medicine are studying deer mice to outline how the Y chromosome defends itself against decay by acquiring gene families while holding its own to maintain fertility.

Medical School News

Nearly 200 University of Michigan Medical School faculty earn promotions

On May 21, the University of Michigan Board of Regents approved promotions for 191 Medical School faculty members. Their new appointments take effect Sept. 1, 2026.

Department News

Renowned Geneticist Dr. Thomas D. Gelehrter Passes Away

It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Thomas D. Gelehrter, MD, Professor Emeritus of Human Genetics and Internal Medicine, and former Chair of the Department of Human Genetics.