GoKawiilGeneticist Robert Williamson, who mapped cystic fibrosis and muscular dystrophy genes, dies
Robert Williamson, a geneticist who used DNA markers to locate disease-linked genes on human chromosomes, has died. His research mapped the locations of the genes associated with cystic fibrosis and Duchenne muscular dystrophy, work that enabled carrier testing and expanded genetic counselling for affected families. He also studied globin genes and thalassaemia, helping develop prenatal diagnosis methods, and later advised governments in the UK and Australia on science policy and bioethics.