Dr. Moshe Szyf is a preeminent scholar and transformative leader in the field of epigenetics at McGill University where he holds the distinguished position of James McGill Professor and GlaxoSmithKline-CIHR Chair in Pharmacology. He earned his Ph.D. from the Hebrew University under Aharon Razin's supervision and completed his postdoctoral fellowship in Genetics at Harvard Medical School before joining McGill University in 1989. As the founding co-director of the Sackler Institute for Epigenetics and Psychobiology at McGill, he established himself as a visionary who bridges molecular mechanisms with clinical applications. His academic trajectory from fundamental DNA methylation research to translational innovation demonstrates exceptional scientific foresight and interdisciplinary integration across biological disciplines.
Dr. Szyf pioneered the revolutionary concept that DNA methylation serves as a prime therapeutic target in cancer and other diseases, a groundbreaking hypothesis he proposed two decades ago that has fundamentally reshaped oncology research and treatment paradigms. His laboratory provided the first compelling evidence that early life social environment can alter DNA methylation patterns, effectively launching the now-thriving field of social epigenetics that connects psychosocial factors with molecular biology. As the founder of Methylgene Inc., he established the world's first pharmaceutical company dedicated to epigenetic pharmacology, demonstrating his commitment to translating basic research into clinical applications. His prolific scholarship includes over 295 peer-reviewed publications as of 2019, reflecting profound influence across multiple disciplines from cancer biology to behavioral science and earning him recognition as a global authority in epigenetic mechanisms.
Beyond his research contributions, Dr. Szyf has profoundly shaped the scientific landscape through his founding of the first dedicated epigenetics journal and leadership in major research initiatives including the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research Experience-based Brain and Biological Development program. He currently serves as founder and CEO of HKG epiTherapeutics Ltd., continuing his mission to develop novel tools for early cancer detection and promote healthy aging through epigenetic insights. Recognized as a Fellow of both the Royal Society of Canada and the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences, his work exemplifies the highest standards of scientific excellence and interdisciplinary innovation. Dr. Szyf's ongoing research continues to bridge molecular mechanisms with real-world health applications, ensuring his enduring impact on scientific understanding and clinical practice in the rapidly evolving field of epigenetics.
