Description
Collection focuses on Berg's work with recombinant DNA and includes professional
correspondence, 1959-1985; research lab notebooks for the years 1953-1986 which document his
work with protein synthesis in bacterial cells and tumor viruses; records concerning the
National Academy of Sciences conference on recombinant DNA research guidelines; records from
his Stanford positions including administrative files, grant files, departmental records,
student files, lectures, and symposia; reprints and illustrations; and videotapes and
audiotapes.
Background
Biochemistry Professor at Stanford University since 1960, Berg received the Nobel Prize for
chemistry in 1980 for "fundamental studies of the biochemistry of nucleic acids with
particular regard to recombinant DNA." He was appointed Director of Stanford's Center for
Molecular and Genetic Medicine in 1984. In 1967, Berg, working at the Salk Institute,
redirected his study of protein synthesis from bacterial cells to tumor viruses. By 1970,
this research had led Berg and his associates to conclude their experiments could form the
basis of "man-made living matter." Spurred by growing ethical questions, Berg chaired the
National Academy of Sciences 1975 conference which focused on the potential hazards of
recombinant DNA research and resulted in the policy and quidelines which form the framework
for genetic research.
Restrictions
Property rights reside with the repository. Literary rights reside with the creators of the
documents or their heirs. To obtain permission to publish or reproduce, please contact the
Public Services Librarian of the Dept. of Special Collections and University Archives.
Availability
Search files, student files, personnel files, letters of recommendation, and other
confidential materials are restricted. Otherwise, materials are open for research use.
Audio-visual materials are not available in original format, and must be reformatted to a
digital use copy.