Pathology Research

Research Focus Areas

The Division of Experimental Pathology represents the research component of the Department of Pathology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center.

Researchers in the Division of Experimental Pathology have designed in vitro and in vivo models for the characterization of pathological and physiological processes such as:

Areas of Exploration

Researchers in the Department of Pathology explore the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying tumor progression, angiogenesis, infection, inflammation, Alzheimer’s Disease and neuronal and cardiac muscle cell physiology. Ongoing studies are elucidating the molecular mechanisms that regulate survival, migration, invasion, metastasis and apoptosis of tumor cells, stromal fibroblasts, endothelial cells and immune cells within the tumor microenvironment. Research efforts are also devoted to developing new therapeutics and improved diagnostics for infectious diseases. Exploration of the roles of non-coding RNAs in normal and disease processes is ongoing by faculty members in the Harvard Medical School Initiative for RNA medicine, which is based in the Department of Pathology. Several investigators are also members of the Harvard Stem Cell Institute and the Broad Institute. Additional ongoing research focuses on the genetic and molecular changes that occur in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Furthermore, advanced computational approaches are being used to investigate complex biological pathways such as the immune system.

Collaboration Encouraged

The Department of Pathology strongly encourages interactions among research and clinical faculty and provides opportunities to access a human tumor resource through its Divisions of Anatomic Pathology and Laboratory Medicine.

With the implementation of a visionary cancer program including a biorepository and robust clinical informatics, the Department of Pathology provides an exceptional environment for scientists to work in a setting that combines the strengthens of Harvard Medical School and its affiliated hospitals with an unusually collegial, supportive and interactive environment.

It is our belief that a detailed understanding of the molecular, cellular and physiological events that dictate cellular behavior will lead to novel therapeutic approaches to disease.

Laboratory Locations

• Center for Life Sciences Building - 3 Blackfan Circle
• Center for Vascular Biology, Simon C. Fireman Research North Building - 99 Brookline Ave.
• Dana Building - 330 Brookline Ave.

Training Programs and Opportunities

The faculty maintains active training programs for medical and graduate students from Harvard Medical School, and postdoctoral PhD and MD research fellows.

Students and fellows who are interested in the training opportunities in Experimental Pathology should contact specific faculty members or Dr. Jack Lawler, Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 99 Brookline Ave., RN 270D, Boston, MA 02215.

Corporate Partnership and Donations

The Division of Experimental Pathology is highly committed to advancing health care through basic research and the development of novel therapeutics. Corporate partnership and philanthropic donations are essential parts of this mission. For further information on how we can work together, please contact Dr. Jack Lawler, Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 99 Brookline Ave., RN 270D, Boston, MA 02215.