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Areas of Research


Penn Vet faculty conduct groundbreaking research projects ranging in focus from osteosarcoma, molecular genetics, retinal blindness, the therapeutic potential of stem cells, the impact of stress on pregnant females, to the impact of nutrition and crating on swine health and reproduction. From large to small, from molecular to systemic, research at Penn Vet continues to push the limits of what we know about animals and humans.

Penn Vet, Volk Lab, migrating keratinocytes 

Research Council

Comprised of the dean, associate dean for research, departmental chairs, faculty representation from each department, and directors from cross-departmental centers and programs, the Penn Vet Research Council meets monthly to discuss critical research issues facing the School. 

  • Penn Vet, cell and molecular biologyCell & Molecular Biology The mission for Penn Vet’s division of Cell and Molecular Biology (CMB) is to resolve the basic molecular mechanisms that ensure proper cell, tissue and organ development and function. » Learn more…
  • Penn Vet, immunology, hookwormImmunology Penn Vet has strong immunology research programs focusing on understanding basic immunologic mechanisms and how to develop new therapeutics for controlling disease. » Learn more…
  • Penn Vet, neuroscience, neuronsNeuroscience Neuroscience research at Penn Vet focuses on clinical and basic studies to improve our understanding of the central nervous system and its involvement in diseases ranging from neurodegenerative disorders to obesity. »Learn more…
  • Penn Vet, stem cell biologyStem cell biology Currently, Penn vet scientists investigate stem cell models ranging from germline stem cells in the mammalian testis and embryo-derived stem cells from animals and humans to somatic stem cells derived from bone marrow, epithelial cells and adipose tissue. » Learn more…
  • Transgenesis, Penn Vet ResearchTransgenesis & Germ Cells In the last 30 years, techniques have been developed to enable the modification of individual genes in animals and plants and thereby precisely alter inherited traits. These genetically altered animals and plants are called transgenic and are of enormous value in medicine and agriculture. » Learn more…
  • DNA Genetics, Penn VetGenetics  Genetic diseases include disorders in which a single gene mutation is necessary and sufficient to cause the disease, as well as complex disorders involving interactions of multiple genes and other factors. » Learn more…
  • Toxicological research, Penn VetToxicology Toxicological research at Penn Vet focuses on the intersection of biology, chemistry and medicine in the study of adverse effects of chemicals on living organisms.
  • Skeletal System, Penn VetMusculoskeletal SystemsHistorically, Penn Vet has contributed significantly to the study of the animal musculoskeletal system, common clinical disorders of bones, joints and soft tissues, and groundbreaking research in diagnosis and treatment protocols.