Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine

Director: Ward, Steven, Ph.D.

Summary:

The major focus of the IBR's research is reproductive and developmental biology, with an emphasis on assisted reproductive techniques (ART). IBR faculty use ART as a model to understand mammalian reproduction and development, and to develop new transgenic models for biomedical research. We also use animal models of ART to investigate and improve current ART usage in fertility clinics. Our research includes a wide range of studies from basic DNA structure to post-fertilization effects of ART on human embryonic development.

The IBR was founded by Dr. Ryuzo Yanagimachi, the first scientist to clone a mouse. He recruited Dr. Ward in 2000. Dr. Ward became the IBR Interim Director in 2004. Dr. Ward's laboratory focuses on the three dimensional structure of DNA in the cell, using sperm as a model system. Funding: NIH (COBRE). In 2008, Dr. Ward received a $10 million grant to develop the IBR into a world-renowned institute in reproductive biology.

People:

• Director: Ward, Steven, Ph.D.
  

Web Links:

• http://www.ibr.hawaii.edu/