Salk Institute for Biological Studies

Founding the Salk Institute for Biological Studies in 1963 was a triumph for Jonas Salk, second only to his development of the polio vaccine in 1955. The Salk Institute for Biological Studies is home to several centers that focus on the biomedical science in specific areas and operate with a small, tightly connected group of scientists who explore a broad range of within these areas, such as aging, cancer, immunology, infectious diseases, and more.  Also included are on-campus facilities called "cores," which provide laboratory environments for trained experts and scientists participating in innovative projects and research and creating world-changing discoveries and cures. In addition to the areas that have been the foundation of the institute's core research, Salk is engaged in new and ongoing COVID-19 related projects ranging from understanding the structure of the virus to mobilizing the body's immune reaction. 

Collaboration is a critical component to the research conducted at Salk, with many projects done in coordination with other research institutes and physicians at University of California, San Diego and the local Veteran's Administration hospital.  Salk offers a calendar of events, including seminars and lectures to share important discoveries and engage general audiences and the research community alike.  The Salk Education Outreach department serves students in the local San Diego area through core programs designed to reach and teach students about scientific literacy and inspire and promote interest in advanced levels of science instruction and science as a career.  From conquering cancer to creative initiatives to combat climate change, the Salk Institute for Biological Studies is committed to respecting and understanding science and the role of basic biological research in our world.