Core academic missions: 

  • In research, to understand how molecules function to promote signaling and catalysis in cells, how signals are transmitted from one cell to another, and how specialized cells perform their functions (Molecules, Cells, Systems); 
  • In teaching, to convey the fundamentals of physiology to medical students in a manner that promotes life-long learning; and to train graduate students for careers in academia or industry;
  • In service, to guide the present and future course of the University and organizations that support basic research.

A broad vision linking neuroscience, immunology, and cancer:

  • Physiology: Normal mechanisms of homeostasis and communication within the body at molecular, cellular, organ, and systems levels, as well as pathophysiology and identifying targets for therapy. How things work, what can go wrong and how to fix it.
  • Biophysics: Quantitative approaches using specialized instrumentation to understand mechanisms. Development of new probes and methods.