Research
Development - cellular plastic circuits
Davide Dulcis and Nick Spitzer
How cells maintain subcellular organization is key to understanding and treating myopathy and neuropathy
Inês Ribeiro, Kiger lab
The thymic medulla produces lots of interferon, even in the absence of infection
Dennis C. Otero, David lab
Cranes flying and standing in corn on Staten Island
Christopher Wills
Faculty
Our research faculty are at the forefront of scientific discovery in their respective fields. Their cutting edge research addresses some of the most perplexing and urgent issues of our time, from cures for cancer and diabetes to understanding neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's, from cleaning up the environment to protecting the world's food supply, from looking for biofuel alternatives to petroleum to understanding climate change and its effects on all forms of life.
Academic Departments
Within the school, research is organized under four departments. Find out more about faculty and research pursued in these Academic Departments, or visit a full description of the subtopics.
Research Environment
The School of Biological Sciences at UC San Diego is at the nexus of the larger La Jolla Mesa Biomedical Research Community, recognized as one of the premier biomedical research centers in the world. The UC San Diego main campus, School of Medicine, and Scripps Institution of Oceanography comprise hundreds of individual laboratories that create a vibrant, research-oriented environment.
Our most important scientific tie is with the Salk Institute for Biological Studies.We formalized this partnership by creating a joint graduate program, the Affiliated Doctoral Program in Biological Sciences. The wider research community includes—among others—the Sandford/Burnham Institute, the Scripps Research Institute, the La Jolla Institute for Allergy and Immunology, and the Neurosciences Institute.
Innovation
At the School of Biological Sciences, innovation is at the heart of discovery. From pioneering research that pushes the boundaries of biological understanding to forging impactful partnerships that translate science into real-world solutions, we are shaping the future of the life sciences. Our commitment to innovation is showcased through dynamic initiatives like our biannual Bridging Biomedical Breakthroughs and Faculty Innovation Pitch, which connect visionary faculty with industry leaders, investors, and collaborators. Explore how our community of researchers is driving progress and creating opportunities for the next generation of biological breakthroughs.