Sérgio Pena (geneticist)

Sérgio Danilo Junho Pena is a Brazilian physician and geneticist. He is best known for his pioneering work in molecular genetics and genomics in Brazil, particularly in the areas of human population genetics, pharmacogenomics, and personalized medicine.

Pena received his medical degree from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) in Brazil and a Ph.D. in Human Genetics from the Medical Research Council's Human Biochemical Genetics Unit in London, England.

He is a full professor at the Department of Biochemistry and Immunology at UFMG, where he has established a leading research laboratory in genetics. His research has focused on the genetic diversity of the Brazilian population, revealing the complex admixture of European, African, and Amerindian ancestries. He has also investigated the genetic basis of various diseases and drug responses, contributing to the development of pharmacogenomic approaches.

Pena is a strong advocate for science communication and public understanding of genetics. He has written extensively for the popular press and has been involved in numerous outreach activities to promote scientific literacy. He has been critical of pseudoscientific claims and has actively worked to debunk genetic myths and misconceptions.

He is a member of the Brazilian Academy of Sciences and has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to science. His work has had a significant impact on our understanding of human genetics and its applications in medicine and society.