Renowned for developing a method for rapid sequencing of DNA, for which he was awarded the 1980 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, Dr. Gilbert has greatly expanded the understanding of gene replication and regulation. His work in molecular biology has included studies of protein synthesis, and isolation of the first genetic repressor. He was the first to express proinsulin in bacteria and developed a method for determining the sequence of nucleotides in a nucleic acid.
Dr. Gilbert has long been a leader in the biotechnology industry, founding and managing several start-up companies and continuing serving on their boards. An early proponent of the Human Genome project, he has received numerous honorary degrees. In addition to his current activities in industry, he is an accomplished photographer with his work exhibited widely.
Career Highlights
1991 New England Entrepreneur of the Year Award, Institute of American Entrepreneurs
1987 Elected Foreign Member, Royal Society, London
1987 Carl M. Loeb University Professor, Harvard University
1980 Nobel Prize in Chemistry
1979-1984 Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Biogen
1979 Gairdner International Award
1979 Louisa Gross Horwitz Prize, Columbia University
1979 Albert Lasker Award for Basic Medical Research
1977 Warren Triennial Prize, Massachusetts General Hospital
1977 Louis and Bert Freedman Foundation Award
1977 Prix Charles-Leopold Mayer, French Academy of Sciences
1976 Elected Member, National Academy of Sciences, Washington, DC
1969 Ledlie Prize, Harvard University
1968 U.S. Steel Foundation Award
1957 PhD, Cambridge University