After attending Northwestern University as an undergraduate, Lerner obtained an MD from Stanford Medical School in 1964, then undertook postdoctoral training at Scripps Clinic and Research Foundation, an early incarnation of the institute he would eventually lead.

Lerner's research into catalytic antibodies provided a method of catalyzing chemical reactions thought impossible using classical techniques.

In addition, Lerner has led extensive studies into protein structure,[2] characterised cis-9,10-octadecenoamide, a novel lipid hormone that induces sleep,[3] and provided the first evidence of a role for ozone in human disease.

He also oversaw the establishment of a sister research campus, called Scripps Florida, in Palm Beach County.

[8] When he was Scripps Research Institute president, in 2005 Lerner's salary was US$1,212,071, placing among the top ten percent of nonprofit executives in the USA.

A consumer advocacy organization, Public Citizen, claimed it constitutes "a conflict of interest" while acknowledging there is "nothing illegal" in his multiple activities.

"[1] Lerner has also published a novel called Epidemic 9 (ISBN 068803585X) about, according to the St. Petersburg Times, "a young scientific investigator who swears off wealth and status in favor of public service work".

[9] He has three adult children; Danica, Arik and Aaron[clarification needed] by a previous marriage to Diana Pickett, a psychotherapist.