Fundamental research into the basic processes of living cells and tissues is crucial to future advances in medicine and biotechnology. Indeed, in few fields of study are basic discovery and practical applications so closely intertwined. The University established the Institute for Cellular and Molecular Biology to focus efforts on the revolutionary developments occurring in molecular biology, genetics, cell biology, and genomics. The objectives of the ICMB are:
-
to build a world-class multidisciplinary research and teaching center in cellular and molecular biology;
-
to focus basic research efforts on molecular genetics and molecular biology problems that will advance our understanding of disease processes and methods for therapy or cure;
-
to build a multidisciplinary center of excellence for biotechnology.
In support of these goals, the Institute fosters development of Cellular and Molecular Biology programs at the University of Texas. The ICMB provides the home and support base for the UT Graduate Programs in Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology and Microbiology. In addition, the Institute is responsible for developing and maintaining essential shared support facilities for Cellular and Molecular Biology research.
