Dr. Yi Zhang, a Professor of Biochemistry & Biophysics has been appointed an investigator of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute.
This is a first such appointment for UNC. Dr. Zhang is recognized for his groundbreaking work in identifying biochemical modifications to chromatin proteins that are responsible for regulating gene expression and other important processes. His work, which offers new insights into stem cell biology and diseases such as cancer, was previously honored with the Gertrude B. Elion Award from the American Association for Cancer Research. Dr. Zhang is a winner of UNC’s 2005 Hettleman Prize for Scholarly Achievement.