U of M: Developmntal Biology Center

Developmental Biology Center Mission Statement The DBC is a group of some thirty faculty with a shared interest in the molecular mechanisms of development; the genetic instructions that create the form and function of the biological world around us. At the heart of development lies a search for the mechanisms that specify cell fate, control patterning in complex tissues, and organize collections of diverse cells into organs. Development touches on many disciplines, including cell biology, genetics, biochemistry, and neurobiology. These areas are reflected in the interests and research efforts of our faculty. We represent a wide range of organisms and systems, and are fortunate to occupy new facilities on both the Minneapolis and St. Paul campuses. At its core developmental biology examines the function of genes in the context of an intact organism, of whole tissues. For this reason, developmental biology continues to provide key insights into the functions of genes that have a huge impact on human disease. The DBC therefore serves as a forum for the interaction between basic research and clinical faculty, and as a place for faculty from many departments to mix and exchange ideas. There are several scientific venues organized by the DBC, including a weekly “bagels and coffee” group, a monthly evening “pizza” club, and our annual symposium. The Developmental Biology Symposia are held here in Minneapolis and attract top researchers from around the world to present their work in selected areas of developmental biology research. We invite you to peruse our web site, see the breadth and depth of our faculty, and participate in the forums we sponsor. It is a wonderful time to be a developmental biologist and we here at the University of Minnesota are working hard to realize the promise that our new understanding of development can offer society.
		Scott B. Selleck, M.D., Ph.D. Director