Center for Gene Expression

The Center for Gene Expression (CGEN), established in April 2023 with a substantial grant from the Danish National Research Foundation’s Centers of Excellence program, is based at the Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine at the University of Copenhagen. CGEN fosters a dynamic and collaborative research environment, connecting leading scientists at the university and internationally.

CGEN is dedicated to advancing the understanding of gene expression through an integrated approach that combines genetic, cell biological, biochemical, organismal, and cutting-edge ‘omics’ technologies. The center’s mission is to achieve a comprehensive view of gene expression, from the fundamental mechanisms of transcription and translation to the intricate regulatory networks and proofreading processes that ensure precise cellular function.

A key aspect of CGEN is its commitment to nurturing the next generation of scientific leaders. Junior group leaders, postdoctoral fellows, and PhD students are provided with exceptional opportunities for training and mentorship, gaining both deep technical expertise and a broad perspective on the medical significance and future directions of gene expression research.

Under the leadership of Director Jesper Svejstrup - an internationally recognized expert in the field - CGEN brings together the outstanding principal investigators Lea Gregersen, Simon Bekker-Jensen, Peter Haahr, Fena Ochs, and Niels Erik Møllegaard. Their collective expertise spans the full spectrum of gene expression, from the decoding of DNA into RNA and proteins to the regulatory feedback loops that maintain cellular integrity. Despite decades of progress, many aspects of these processes remain incompletely understood, and CGEN is uniquely positioned to address these knowledge gaps through innovative, interdisciplinary research.