Dear Colleagues,

We are deeply saddened to share that William J. Rutter, PhD, Herzstein Professor of Biochemistry Emeritus, passed away on Friday, July 11, 2025. A pioneering biochemist and visionary leader, Dr. Rutter helped shape both UCSF and the biotechnology industry through decades of groundbreaking work.

Dr. Rutter was recruited to UCSF in 1968 to chair the Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics. He recruited many new young faculty and fostered a collaborative, interdisciplinary research culture that transformed UCSF into a global hub for molecular biology. Under his leadership, the department played a pivotal role in developing recombinant DNA technology – including the cloning of the insulin gene.

In 1981, Dr. Rutter co-founded Chiron Corporation to advance the application of biotechnology to human health. At Chiron, he and his collaborators helped develop the first recombinant hepatitis B vaccine (in partnership with Merck), and discovered, sequenced, and cloned the hepatitis C virus in 1987. These breakthroughs laid the foundation for diagnostic tests, therapies, and vaccines that have benefited millions.

After retiring from UCSF in 1991, Dr. Rutter remained an influential leader in biotechnology. He founded Synergenics, LLC in 1999, a consortium of biotech companies, and served as an advisor and planner for UCSF’s Mission Bay campus.

Over the course of his prolific career, Dr. Rutter authored more than 380 scientific publications, held over 25 patents, and was elected to the National Academy of Sciences and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. Among his many honors, he received the UCSF Medal and the Heinz Award, recognizing his scientific achievements and commitment to ensuring biotechnology served the public good.

In 2007, UCSF named its Mission Bay community center the William J. Rutter Center, honoring his legacy of bridging science, industry, and academia to drive innovation in health.

Dr. Rutter will be remembered not only for his transformative contributions to science and biotechnology, but also for his enduring belief in translating discovery into impact for humanity.

On behalf of the UCSF community, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Dr. Rutter’s family, friends, and close colleagues. To learn more about his remarkable life and career, please read this article.

Sincerely,

Sam Hawgood, MBBS
Chancellor, UCSF
Arthur and Toni Rembe Rock Distinguished Professor

Talmadge E. King, Jr., MD
Dean, UCSF School of Medicine
Vice Chancellor for Medical Affairs, UCSF