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Donald B. Kohn
Professor at UCLA
Donald B. Kohn is a renowned physician-scientist and professor at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).12 He specializes in pediatric hematology/oncology and is a world-recognized expert in blood stem cell treatments and gene therapy.3
Dr. Kohn's academic background includes:
- B.S. in Biology and M.S. in Microbiology from the University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana14
- M.D. from the University of Wisconsin Medical School14
His career highlights include:
- Professor at UCLA since February 2009, with appointments in the Departments of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, Pediatrics, and Molecular & Medical Pharmacology24
- Director of the Human Gene Medicine Program at UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine4
- Previously, Professor at USC Keck School of Medicine from 1987 to 20094
- Pioneered the development of one of the first successful blood stem cell gene therapies for adenosine deaminase-deficient severe combined immunodeficiency (ADA-SCID), also known as "Bubble Baby" disease35
Dr. Kohn's research focuses on developing new methods to treat genetic blood diseases using gene-modified blood-forming stem cells.2 His clinical trials have successfully treated over 50 babies with ADA-SCID.35 He is also applying similar techniques in clinical trials for other conditions such as X-linked chronic granulomatous disease, leukocyte adhesion deficiency, and sickle cell disease.2
Throughout his career, Dr. Kohn has received numerous accolades, including the 2021 ISCT Career Achievement Award and the Founders Award from the American Society of Gene and Cell Therapy.35 He has also held leadership positions in various scientific societies and has mentored over 50 early-stage professionals in the field.3


