Sean Burgess, a professor of molecular and cellular biology whose research has advanced understanding of chromosome inheritance, reproductive biology and human developmental disorders, has been named chair of the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology (MCB). She will begin serving in the role on September 1.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to serve MCB, a department that has shaped much of my scientific career,” said Burgess. “I am grateful to Dean Winey for his confidence, to Fred Chédin for his excellent leadership as chair, and to the MCB faculty, staff and students who make this such a vibrant and collegial community.”

Uncovering the mechanisms of life

From the earliest stages of development, every new generation depends on cells accurately passing genetic information from parent to offspring. Burgess has spent her career studying how that process unfolds—and what happens when it goes wrong.

Since joining UC Davis in 1999, Burgess has built an internationally recognized research program investigating chromosome behavior during meiosis, the specialized cell division that produces sperm and egg cells. Her laboratory combines genetics, live-cell imaging and advanced microscopy to observe chromosomes in motion, providing new insights into how they pair, exchange DNA and ensure the accurate inheritance of genetic information.

That work has helped illuminate the biological mechanisms underlying infertility, miscarriage and birth defects. More recently, Burgess has also collaborated on developing innovative zebrafish models that could dramatically accelerate the identification of pesticides and other environmental chemicals that disrupt reproductive health.

By pairing fundamental biological research with innovative experimental tools, Burgess's work continues to deepen scientists' understanding of chromosome biology while opening new avenues for protecting reproductive health.

A department where disciplines converge

The Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology brings together researchers investigating the fundamental processes that govern life, from gene regulation and cell signaling to development, biochemistry, genetics, neuroscience and host-microbe interactions.

The department has long been recognized for research that crosses traditional disciplinary boundaries, bringing together faculty with diverse expertise to tackle some of biology's most important questions. It also plays a central role in the College of Biological Sciences, contributing to undergraduate and graduate education while preparing the next generation of scientists through research, mentorship and innovative teaching.

As chair, Burgess will help lead the department's research, teaching and service missions while supporting a vibrant community of faculty, staff, postdoctoral scholars and students.

“Sean is an outstanding scientist, mentor and colleague,” said Mark Winey, dean of the College of Biological Sciences. “In addition to her internationally recognized research, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership as chair of the Integrative Genetics and Genomics Graduate Group and as vice chair for academic personnel in MCB. Those experiences, combined with her commitment to research, teaching and mentorship, make her exceptionally well prepared to lead the department.”

Leading the department’s next chapter

Burgess said she looks forward to supporting the department's collaborative culture while helping faculty, staff and students continue pushing the boundaries of biological discovery.

“MCB’s strengths are curiosity-driven science, rigorous training for students and postdocs, innovative teaching, and a collaborative community,” said Burgess . “As chair, I want to help create the conditions that allow faculty, staff, postdocs and students to do their best work, while continuing to build a department that is supportive, open to new directions, and committed to excellence in research, teaching and service.”

Burgess succeeds Frederic Chedin, who has served as chair of the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology since 2022 and will step into the role of dean of the College of Biological Sciences on September 1.