Dr. Ahna Skop is an internationally recognized geneticist, cell biologist, artist, and science communicator at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where she holds joint roles in Genetics, Cell Regenerative Biology, Life Sciences Communication, and the Division of the Arts. Renowned for her pioneering research on the molecular mechanisms of cell division—especially the role of midbody remnants (MBRs) as RNA-rich organelles—Dr. Skop’s discoveries have advanced understanding of disease mechanisms in cancer and neurodevelopmental disorders.
As Chief Scientific Officer and co-founder of aMBR Genomics, Dr. Skop is translating key laboratory findings into new diagnostic approaches for cancer and neurodegenerative diseases, for which she won the MedTech Judges Choice Award at Equalize Startups 2025.
Dr. Skop is a passionate advocate for STEAM, integrating the arts into science as a curator, author, and educator. Her creative works include “Genetic Reflections: A Coloring Book” and “Lab Culture: A Recipe for Innovation in Science.” Recognized with the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE), the AAAS’s Remarkable Women in Science honor, and multiple teaching awards, Dr. Skop has also led recruitment and outreach initiatives promoting diversity and equity in STEM. Her impact bridges scientific innovation, artistic expression, and community engagement, reflecting the STEAM vision celebrated by the Da Vinci Science Center.
