It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. Thomas Lehner, New York Genome Center Scientific Director of Neuropsychiatric Disease Genomics, a pioneering figure in the field of neuropsychiatric disease genetics and genomics. Dr. Lehner passed away on the morning of November 6, 2024, at the age of 64, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking research and a life dedicated to the advancement of science and medicine.
Throughout his distinguished career, Dr. Lehner became a respected leader in the study of the genetic underpinnings of neuropsychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, autism, and Alzheimer’s disease. His innovative work and aptitude for building multidisciplinary collaborations helped unravel the complex interactions between genes and brain function, driving forward our understanding of how genetic variations contribute to the risk and development of these challenging conditions. Dr. Lehner’s contributions to large-scale genomic studies and collaborative consortia opened new avenues for personalized medicine and therapeutic interventions, providing hope to millions of individuals affected by neuropsychiatric disorders.
Dr. Thomas Lehner was not only an exceptional scientist but also a generous mentor, colleague, and friend. He inspired countless early-career researchers, offering guidance, wisdom, and encouragement. Known for his intellectual rigor, curiosity, and kindness, Dr. Lehner fostered a collaborative environment, always pushing the boundaries of what was possible in scientific discovery while staying deeply committed to addressing historical disparities in genomics, advocating for the inclusion of underrepresented groups in neuropsychiatric research to reduce health inequities and improve outcomes for marginalized populations.
Born in Austria on August 29, 1960, Dr. Lehner earned his Ph.D. in Human Biology from The University of Vienna, Austria, and went on to hold prominent academic and research positions at Columbia University, The Rockefeller University, Gencentrix, Millennium Pharmaceuticals, National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), and the New York Genome Center (NYGC). Over the course of his career, he authored or co-authored numerous influential papers, received prestigious awards, and was a valued member of many international research initiatives. At NIMH, Thomas developed thirty NIMH Research Initiatives and took the lead on 6 Trans-NIH Research Initiatives for NIMH. At NYGC, Thomas built a Neuropsychiatric Disease Genomics program, recruiting key faculty members and crafting pivotal multi-institutional interdisciplinary collaborations.
Beyond his scientific achievements, Dr. Lehner was beloved for his warmth, humility, and unwavering dedication to family, friends, and community. In both personal and professional realms, he exhibited remarkable empathy, always striving to uplift those around him.
In tribute to Dr. Thomas Lehner’s unwavering commitment to advancing our understanding of the human brain and his pioneering efforts that have driven discoveries, that will one day lead to improved therapies for neuropsychiatric disorders, the New York Genome Center has established the Thomas Lehner Fund for Neuropsychiatric Disease Genomics. This fund will ensure that Dr. Lehner’s groundbreaking work continues, supporting research aimed at uncovering the genetic foundations of mental health disorders.
To contribute and help carry forward his legacy, please click here.
In addition, an online memory board has been created to view or add your memories or photos of Dr. Lehner.
