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20th anniversary spotlight
Learn more about the history of innovative research at the Biodesign Institute.
Q&As with center directors
The Biodesign Institute is home to a dynamic group of scientific leaders. Our center directors recruit cutting-edge researchers as well as lead in fields ranging from microbiology and sustainability to molecular science and neuroscience. Explore their profiles to learn more about their groundbreaking work, leadership and contributions to shaping the future of science.
Brain health
Jeffrey Kordower’s promising new research for Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases
Renewable resources
Bruce Rittmann is partnering with microorganisms to enable new technologies
Cellular energy
Sidney Hecht ASU biochemist honored for lifetime achievement in improving human health
DNA sequencing
Stuart Lindsay explores biological molecules at an atomic scale to understand how they function
Computer science
Stephanie Forrest is utilizing a unique integration of computation, biology and health
Public health
Rolf Halden is improving human health through environmental monitoring and stewardship
A big, bold vision to change the world
The Biodesign Institute seeks to solve society’s toughest challenges, guided by nature’s elegant designs. Instead of organizing by traditional academic units, its centers form around problems that need to be solved — from treating diseases to removing toxic chemicals from water.
Executive Director Josh LaBaer shares his personal journey as a researcher
Leading extensive interdisciplinary research efforts to solve some of the greatest challenges facing humankind and the planet, Josh LaBaer shares a behind-the-scenes look into his lab, his life and his vision for the institute’s future.
Celebrating ‘20 Years of Discovery’ at the Biodesign Institute
In this series, we revisit several impactful discoveries that have shaped the first two decades of the institute. The Biodesign Institute plays a pivotal role in applying nature-inspired research and technological innovation to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time — translating into tangible benefits for humanity.
The surprising role of viruses in health and disease
Explore groundbreaking research transforming our understanding of viruses, disease and reproduction.
Evolution and health
Discover our breakthroughs in health science, AI-powered medicine, early disease detection and genetic discoveries.
Transforming health: Biodesign’s diagnostic revolution
The Biodesign Institute is revolutionizing health with cutting-edge diagnostic tools, nanotechnology and innovative plant-based treatments.
Mysteries of the microbiome
How the Biodesign Institute is unlocking revolutionary solutions in microbiome research, structural biology and global health.
Advancements in the multifront battle against cancer
Learn about how the Biodesign Institute is pioneering cancer therapies using oncolytic viruses and other early detection methods, alongside groundbreaking research in clean energy.
Innovating to support Arizona during the COVID-19 pandemic
Looking back at some of the Biodesign Institute’s transformative scientific discoveries.
20 Years of impact
Research IDs unique hallmarks of six neurogenderative diseases, opening new therapy approaches.
2022
Study characterizes different bacterial populations from drinking water from International Space Station.
2021
First saliva-based COVID-19 test in the southwestern U.S. to be made widely available to the public
2020
Researchers develop “immunosilencing” technique, can make CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing safer, more reliable.
2019
FDA draws from ASU studies to ban products with antimicrobials, long-term exposure could pose risks.
2016
Workers infected with Ebola virus recover after receiving experimental ZMapp treatment.
2014
Treatment study of children with autism resulted in an 80% reduction of certain symptoms and behavior.
2012
Gut microbes may affect weight, study from ASU and Mayo Clinic could become future obesity treatment.
2009
A new, collaborative and interdisciplinary institute reflects ASU’s vision for rapid research.
2004