Faculty Research Programs

Our mission is to make discoveries through basic research, then use that new knowledge through translational research to improve human health, our food supply, and our environment. Faculty research spans the levels of biological organization from molecules to ecosystems, using model systems drawn from a wide range of organisms.

Our research programs focus on three highly connected areas:

These three areas lie at the heart of life sciences in the 21st century, and each builds upon the others' strengths.

Research stories

News Archive >>

Researchers study model to learn why certain cancers become resistant to drugs.	Mark Kirk and colleagues: stem cell therapy shows promise for neurodegenerative disease.
Jim Birchler and colleagues attach genes to minichromosomes in maize. Group receives $1.9 million NSF grant.	Mannie Liscum conducts research on drought-tolerant plants. (pdf) Molecular-level discoveries on the mechanisms of phototropism.
Rex Cocroft and NPR's Radio Expeditions take a Journey to the Edge of the Amazon.	Wetlands threatened by new EPA guidance, says Ray Semlitsch, Biological Sciences. The new wildlife refuge: golf courses?
Maize Mapping Project associate project director Karen Cone and project members unveil new maize genome map.	George Smith receives 2007 Promega Biotechnology Research Award.
Lori Eggert and student study the status of black bears in Missouri.	Fred vom Saal: Programmed for obesity - early exposure to common chemicals can permanently alter metabolic system.
John Faaborg research project tracks warblers through tail feathers.	Troy Zars finds mechanism in memory development that may help Parkinson's patients.