John Tamkun

John Tamkun is a scientist renowned for his groundbreaking contributions to Drosophila genetics. His work focused on chromatin remodeling factors and their interactions with polycomb group proteins.

He was also the first to identify the bromodomain as a structural motif in members of the BET family of genes, showing that this domain is responsible for activating some specific genes involved in transcriptional activation.

Personal Life

John was a kind and gentle soul, always offering his arms in friendship to those he encountered. He enjoyed entertaining friends and family at his home with ease.

He had a deep-seated passion for dogs, particularly miniature Schnauzers. Additionally, he enjoyed golfing and hunting.

He was an active member of his church in White Bear Lake, Minnesota and enjoyed watching over his 14 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren’s activities. A steady, wise, and humble individual who will be greatly missed by all those who knew him, he will be greatly missed by those who knew him best.