Rockefeller Institute for Medical Research

Rockefeller Institute for Medical Research

Formation	1901
Type	Medical research institute
Headquarters	New York City, New York, U.S.

The Rockefeller Institute for Medical Research, now known as the Rockefeller University, is a renowned research institution located in New York City, New York. Founded in 1901 by John D. Rockefeller after being inspired by the success of the Pasteur Institute in Paris, the institute was the first biomedical research center in the United States and has been a pioneer in the field of medical research.

History

The Rockefeller Institute for Medical Research was established with the goal of improving human health through scientific research. The institute initially focused on infectious diseases and played a crucial role in developing vaccines and new therapeutic techniques. Over the years, its research focus expanded to include biochemistry, virology, and other life sciences.

In 1965, the institute officially became Rockefeller University, reflecting its broader focus and educational role in training biomedical scientists. The university has maintained its reputation as a leading research institution, contributing to numerous scientific advancements and earning multiple Nobel Prizes in Physiology or Medicine for its researchers.

Research and Impact

The Rockefeller Institute for Medical Research made significant contributions to medical science, including the development of the first successful vaccine for meningitis and the discovery of DNA's structure as a double helix. Its researchers have been involved in critical breakthroughs in understanding and treating various diseases, such as tuberculosis and cancer.

The institute's commitment to interdisciplinary research and the integration of clinical and laboratory science has fostered a unique research environment. This approach has enabled the institution to remain at the forefront of medical research and innovation.

Notable Researchers

Several eminent scientists have been associated with the Rockefeller Institute for Medical Research, including:

• Oswald Avery, who discovered that DNA is the material of which genes and chromosomes are made.
• Peyton Rous, who found the first virus that could cause cancer, which eventually led to the discovery of oncogenes.
• Albert Sabin, who developed the oral polio vaccine.

Legacy and Influence

The legacy of the Rockefeller Institute for Medical Research extends beyond its scientific achievements. It has set a standard for medical research institutions worldwide and has influenced the establishment of similar institutions globally. The institute's emphasis on rigorous scientific research and its impact on public health policies have had a lasting effect on medical science and healthcare.

See Also

• Biomedical research
• List of Nobel laureates affiliated with Rockefeller University