Xiangzhong Yang, widely known as Jerry, a stem cell scientist, cloning pioneer, professor of animal science, and director of UConn’s Center for Regenerative Biology, died on Feb. 5 after a long battle with cancer. He was 49.

Yang joined the faculty at UConn in 1996 – the year that Dolly the sheep was cloned in Scotland – as associate professor of animal science and head of the Biotechnology Center’s Transgenic Animal Facility. Three years later, he announced the arrival of Amy, a cloned cow.

In 2001, Yang was appointed founding director of the University’s new Center for Regenerative Biology, with five new faculty, charged with investigating areas of basic science in the growing field of regenerative biology and medicine.

Donations may be made in memory of Yang for a purpose to be designated by his family. Please make checks payable to The UConn Foundation Inc., with “in honor of Dr. Jerry Yang” in the memo line, and send to the UConn Foundation, 2390 Alumni Drive U-3206, Storrs, CT 06269-3206.