The late Dr. Thomas Lehner was a pioneering figure in genomics, serving as the Scientific Director of Neuropsychiatric Disease Genomics at the New York Genome Center. A University of Vienna Ph. D. graduate, he had a distinguished 15-year tenure at the National Institute of Mental Health, driving major research initiatives into complex mental illnesses.
Dr. Lehner was remembered not only as an exceptional scientist but also for his kindness, warmth, and humility. He was a generous mentor dedicated to inspiring early-career researchers and was deeply committed to his family, friends, and community, fostering a collaborative and uplifting environment for those around him.
He was instrumental in conceiving and developing the PsychENCODE Consortium, a major NIH initiative to create a public resource of genomic data from human brains.
Thomas Lehner
Director, Neuropsychiatric Disease Genomics at New York Genome Center
New York, New York, United States
Overview
Topics They Care About
Neuropsychiatric Genomics
Dedicated his career to studying the genetic underpinnings of disorders like autism, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder to unravel their biological mechanisms.
Large-Scale Collaboration
Championed and led multi-institutional consortia, such as PsychENCODE, to accelerate discovery through large-scale data generation and sharing in the scientific community.
Health Equity
Was deeply committed to addressing historical disparities in genomics, advocating for the inclusion of underrepresented populations in neuropsychiatric research.
Media Appearances
In Memoriam: Dr. Thomas Lehner, Pioneer in Disease Research. Featured in New York Genome Center
Thomas Lehner, PhD, MPH, Joins NYGC. Featured in New York Genome Center
Thomas Lehner, PhD, MPH, Joins the New York Genome Center as Scientific Director of Neuropsychiatric Disease Genomics. Featured in PR Newswire
Work History
1-2020
Director, Neuropsychiatric Disease Genomics at New York Genome Center
1-2020
Senior Genomics Advisor at National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Chief, Genomics Research Branch at National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
1-2020
Director, Office of Genomics Research Coordination at NIH
Education
1980 - 1987
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) from University of Vienna
Master’s Degree from Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons
More Information
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Location : New York, New York, United States
Job Level : Mid-senior
Designation : Director, Neuropsychiatric Disease Genomics at New York Genome Center
