Egelman, Kron, Petri Named UVA’s 2016 Distinguished Scientists

Edward H. Egelman
Harrison Distinguished Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics

Described by his nominator Anindya Dutta, who chairs the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, as “the world’s go-to person” for developing imaging and mathematical tools for understanding filaments formed by proteins and DNA, Egelman is known for breaking new ground in the analysis of helix-shaped structures. These structures range from the pili (hair-like structures) on the surface of pathogenic bacteria to viruses that can survive nearly boiling acid.

Unraveling the complexities of these structures is central to the fundamental understanding of all life, and to the development of therapies for treating a wide range of diseases.

“Ed [Egelman] is a gifted scientist who has lately set the world ablaze with his discoveries,” Dutta said.The author of more than 200 papers, the algorithms and methods Egelman has developed to untangle biomolecular complexities, including 3-D imaging techniques, are used by scientists around the world and have led to important scientific discoveries, such as how DNA can be packaged in certain viruses and bacterial spores in a way that resists extremely harsh conditions.

Egelman, a frequently invited speaker at international scientific meetings, has served as editor-in-chief of the prominent Biophysical Journal, recently completed service as president of the Biophysical Society, and has received that society’s Distinguished Service Award. He came to UVA in 1999.