Message from the Chairman
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Within the next several decades, the molecular basis of many of our most perplexing
health problems will be characterized in fine detail. Through the use of complex genome databases and
expression studies, we have already begun unraveling the molecular details of cell differentiation and
tissue development. Yet there is so much more to understand. The tools of molecular biology and biochemistry
will eventually lead us to a complete understanding of even complex processes as brain functioning and aging.
These tools promise to reveal definitively the biochemical underpinnings of still-enigmatic disease processes
such as those that occur in mental illness and auto-immunity. Many of today's most demanding medical problems
may soon be treatable and even curable using emerging gene transfer techniques and stem cell transplantation.
The University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine's Department of Microbiology and Molecular
Genetics continues to develop into one of the nation’s leaders. Our NIH ranking among relevant departments,
such as microbiology, genetics and biochemistry, remains at the 3rd or 4th position depending on the comparison.
The department has more than 100 active grants, a remarkable number for our 28 grant-funded faculty. Our
research programs continue to grow and include investigations in microbial pathogenesis, host responses to
infection and immunity and vaccine development, virology and viral vectors, biochemistry, developmental biology,
and genetics. The department has made considerable progress in establishing vaccine and bio-defense initiatives,
molecular studies of cancer related processes, and projects related to Stem cells, mechanisms and treatment of
pain, and organogenesis. MMG faculty now host two national center grants, one for gene therapy of cardiovascular
disease and the second for the development of cell and gene therapies for muscle diseases.
From my perspective, the coming years are irresistibly alluring for those who aspire to a
career in biology and medical science. Research endeavors in the biomedical sciences promise to be highly
satisfying and intellectually challenging, particularly during the next few decades. This department provides
an exceptionally exciting and vigorous academic environment for graduate training in modern biomedical research.
Our faculty is highly enthusiastic and committed to developing the careers of young scientists. We are eager to
join with you in a discovery process that will shape your professional pursuits and ensure that our future is
in capable hands.
Sincerely,
Thomas E. Smithgall, Ph.D.
William S. McEllroy Professor and Chair
The Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics
University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
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