Innovative Genomics Institute

The Innovative Genomics Institute is composed of diverse researchers with a powerful combined expertise. After the development of the CRISPR-Cas9 system for rewriting DNA, we saw the potential of applying this technology to solve some of humanity’s greatest problems. Our scientists conduct world-class research, driven by the real possibility to cure human disease, end hunger, and protect the environment.

In addition to our scientific efforts, the IGI is committed to advancing public understanding of genome engineering and providing resources for the broader community.

a man in a green hoodie holding a smiling baby with both arms

Infant Born With Deadly Disease Now Thriving Thanks to Customized CRISPR Treatment

A newborn boy, diagnosed with a rare and potentially fatal genetic disease, received a novel, on-demand CRISPR therapy in record time.

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Brian Staskawicz Awarded Wolf Prize in Agriculture

A Berkeley professor has been awarded the 2025 Wolf Prize in Agriculture for his discoveries of the immune system and disease resistance in plants.

people in a laboratory, one of them pointing toward a computer screen

U.S. Representatives Vow To Fight Freeze on Federal Research Funding

U.S. Representatives and Berkeley professors met at the Innovative Genomics Institute for a tour and briefing amidst research funding cuts.

a man looks at plant growing in brightly lit box

In 10 years, CRISPR Transformed Medicine. Can It Now Help Us Deal With Climate Change?

Coming from a long line of Iowa farmers, David Savage always thought he would do research to improve crops. That dream died in college, when it became clear that any genetic tweak to a crop would take at least a year to test; for some perennials and trees, it could take five to 10 years. Faced with such slow progress, he chose to study the proteins in photosynthetic bacteria instead. But the advent of CRISPR changed all that.

graphic showing how CRISPR edits out the sickle cell mutation in the genome

FDA approves first test of CRISPR to correct genetic defect causing sickle cell disease

Mobilizing colleagues in the then-new Innovative Genome Institute (IGI) — a joint research collaboration between the University of California, Berkeley, and UC San Francisco — they sought to repair the single mutation that makes red blood cells warp and clog arteries, causing excruciating pain and often death.

Innovative Genomics Institute

In News

Infant Born With Deadly Disease Now Thriving Thanks to Customized CRISPR Treatment

Brian Staskawicz Awarded Wolf Prize in Agriculture

U.S. Representatives Vow To Fight Freeze on Federal Research Funding

In 10 years, CRISPR Transformed Medicine. Can It Now Help Us Deal With Climate Change?

FDA approves first test of CRISPR to correct genetic defect causing sickle cell disease

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