Mission Statement

Our mission is to advance knowledge through innovative basic science research that uncovers biochemical and genetic mechanisms of diseases, such as cancer and inherited health disorders.  In the pursuit of this goal, we strongly believe that we perform best when everyone contributes to a respectful and inclusive environment in which we support each other.

Educational Activities

The department plays a major role in the teaching of the following modules of the Integrated Clinical Sciences for 1st year Medical Students: Foundations of Medicine; Cells, Blood & Cancer; and Gastrointestinal. Several MD, Ph.D. students conduct research in departmental laboratories. The department also welcomes MD students to conduct research during the summer or during term under the direction of selected mentors.

Each year 10-20 undergraduates from the University of Virginia join laboratories in the department to carry out primary research, often resulting in undergraduate thesis. Research is carried out both in the summer and during term.