Seattle Biomedical Research Institute Programs
Laboratory Research:
We believe that targeted research is the first step toward conquering any disease. Our scientist conduct fundamental research to understand how diseases work on the human body and how disease processes can be prevented or stopped permanently. All of our efforts are focused on one end result: freedom from infectious disease. Research discoveries made at Seattle BioMed are the foundation for new drugs, diagnostics and vaccines to help create a world of healthy people, thriving communities and stable nations.
Education & Training:
Education and training is an integral part of Seattle BioMed’s mission. Some of our training opportunities include:
- Through hands-on learning experiences, our BioQuest science education program propels high school students into the real world of science.
- The Global Health Internship Program provides an opportunity for highly qualified undergraduate interns to work side-by-side with our researchers.
- Select graduate students have the opportunity to perform their thesis work at Seattle BioMed, and further training in our Postdoctoral Program is available for scientists who've recently received their doctoral degrees.
Outreach to the Puget Sound Community:
Through learning events such as “Global Health 101”, Seattle BioMed offers opportunities to interact with our scientists and learn about the roles we can play to improve global health.
Recent Successes and Current Challenges
Proven Results:
Seattle BioMed knows that science can change the course of history. Through the determination of principal investigator Stefan Kappe, Ph.D. and his research team, a promising discovery is emerging from the laboratory: a new vaccine utilizing a weakened form of the parasite that causes malaria. This type of vaccine – using an attenuated form of the whole organism – has proven successful in eradicating smallpox, as well as controlling diseases such as flu and polio. The Phase I clinical trial of the genetically attenuated parasite (GAP) vaccine demonstrated the validity of our approach. More trials are planned, likely in our own Malaria Clinical Trials Center. Through this and other malaria research, Seattle BioMed aims to find new ways to relieve the burden of malaria for millions.
How You Can Help:
The Breakthrough Fund gives you the power to invest in a healthier world. When your gift is combined with the support of hundreds of other inspired donors, it can change the course of global health forever. As Seattle BioMed’s sole source of unrestricted support, the Breakthrough Fund allows us to act immediately on the promising new ideas that lead to breakthroughs in the quest to eliminate infectious disease. Whether your gift funds a pioneering investigation of HIV and TB co-infections or hands-on training for the next generation of scientists, you can be sure you’re creating the hope of a healthier future for people around the world.