1. a biologist or scientist who studies epigenesis or epigenetics, the study of how genes are expressed and regulated without changes to the underlying DNA sequence
Usage: technical; modern usage primarily in genetics and developmental biology
2. a historical biologist who believed in epigenesis, the theory that organisms develop from undifferentiated material rather than from preformed miniature versions
Usage: archaic; historical context in developmental biology

Examples

• The epigenist discovered that environmental factors could silence certain genes without altering the DNA itself.
• Modern epigenists study how diet and stress affect gene expression across generations.
• As an epigenist, she focused on understanding how chemical modifications regulate genetic activity.
• The conference brought together leading epigenists to discuss new findings in gene regulation.
• Epigenists have shown that identical twins can develop different traits due to environmental influences on gene expression.