The American Cytogenomics Conference (ACC) proudly announces the recipients of the 2026 ACC Distinguished Cytogeneticist Award: Terry Hassold, PhD, and Patricia Hunt, PhD, of Washington State University. We look forward to celebrating their outstanding accomplishments at the 2026 ACC Annual Meeting, to be held in San Diego on May 17–20, 2026.
Terry Hassold, PhD
2026 ACC Distinguished Cytogeneticist Award Recipient
Dr. Terry Hassold is an internationally recognized leader in human cytogenetics and reproductive biology, whose work has greatly advanced our understanding of chromosome abnormalities in human reproduction. He is an Eastlick Distinguished Professor Emeritus at the School of Molecular Biosciences at Washington State University and a former Director of the Center for Reproductive Biology, a collaborative research initiative between Washington State University and the University of Idaho.2026 ACC Distinguished Cytogeneticist Award Recipient
Dr. Hassold’s research has focused on the origin, mechanisms, and effects of human chromosome abnormalities, which cause more than half of all miscarriages and are a leading cause for congenital anomalies and intellectual disabilities. Using combined classical cytogenetics, molecular techniques, and model systems, his work has provided fundamental insights into meiotic recombination, chromosome segregation, and the biological basis of aneuploidy in both humans and model organisms. His contributions have played a key role in advancing our understanding of the underlying mechanisms for aneuploidy.
Throughout his career, Dr. Hassold has authored over 200 peer-reviewed scientific papers and edited three influential books, establishing himself as a leading authority on meiotic chromosome behavior. His work has made a lasting impact on human genetics, reproductive biology, and clinical cytogenetics.
Dr. Hassold has also shown outstanding service to the community. He has served on many NIH scientific review panels and advisory boards, including those of the National Down Syndrome Society and organizations that support individuals and families affected by trisomy disorders. He has held editorial leadership roles for several top journals, including the American Journal of Human Genetics, American Journal of Medical Genetics, Chromosoma, and Cytogenetics and Genome Research. Additionally, he served on the Board of Directors of the American Society of Human Genetics.
Through his research excellence, mentorship, and sustained service, Dr. Hassold has made lasting contributions to cytogenetics and human genetics. The American Cytogenomics Conference is proud to honor him with the 2026 Distinguished Cytogeneticist Award.
Patricia Hunt, PhD
2026 ACC Distinguished Cytogeneticist Award Recipient
Dr. Patricia Hunt is a Regents Professor in the School of Molecular Biosciences at Washington State University and a globally recognized researcher whose work has revolutionized our understanding of meiosis, maternal age effects, and environmental influences on genome stability. Her research focuses on a fundamental and challenging question in clinical cytogenetics: why do women produce such a high rate of chromosomally abnormal eggs, and why does this risk increase significantly with advancing maternal age?2026 ACC Distinguished Cytogeneticist Award Recipient
Dr. Hunt’s lifelong research into meiotic chromosome behavior has provided essential insights into the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind aneuploidy. A pivotal moment in her work occurred in 1998 when accidental exposure of laboratory mice to bisphenol A (BPA) led her to uncover the significant effects of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) on the germline. Since then, her research has broadened to include studies in mice, nonhuman primates, and humans, demonstrating how environmental exposures can disrupt meiosis, affect fertility, and influence reproductive outcomes across generations.
In addition to advancing fundamental science, Dr. Hunt has been a passionate advocate for environmental health research, helping to improve understanding of EDC pharmacokinetics and the limits of analytical measurement methods. Her work has made a wide impact in cytogenetics, reproductive biology, toxicology, and public health. In 2022, she co-created the interdisciplinary course ECHO (Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals: Hazards and Opportunities) at the Marine Biological Laboratory, which connects biology, environmental science, and public policy.
Her extensive professional service includes leadership roles on national and international advisory boards, NIH study sections, and scientific societies. Dr. Hunt’s contributions have been recognized with numerous honors, including Regents Professor at WSU and multiple distinguished awards from the Society for the Study of Reproduction.
Through her pioneering research, educational leadership, and public engagement, Dr. Hunt has made lasting contributions to cytogenetics and reproductive genetics. The ACC is proud to honor her with the 2026 Distinguished Cytogeneticist Award.