Paul Berg

Paul Berg (1926-2023) was an American biochemist. He was a pioneer in genetic engineering and is best known for his groundbreaking work in splicing genes.

In 1980, Berg was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, which he shared with Walter Gilbert and Frederick Sanger. Berg's portion of the prize recognized his fundamental studies of the biochemistry of nucleic acids, with particular regard to recombinant DNA. Specifically, he developed a method to insert foreign DNA into viral genomes, creating the first recombinant DNA molecules. This allowed scientists to clone and study genes in new ways, revolutionizing molecular biology and biotechnology.

Berg earned his B.S. degree in chemistry from Pennsylvania State University in 1948 and his Ph.D. in biochemistry from Western Reserve University in 1952. He held faculty positions at Washington University in St. Louis and Stanford University, where he spent the majority of his career.

His research significantly advanced our understanding of gene expression and laid the groundwork for numerous applications in medicine, agriculture, and industry. He was also a strong advocate for responsible research practices and a vocal participant in the ethical debates surrounding genetic engineering.