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where science meets society

Where Science Meets Society

Learn More About IGB

The Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology (IGB) is an innovative research institute using cutting-edge genomic practices to tackle large-scale global challenges currently facing humanity.

Food security for a growing population. Effective therapeutic drugs and antibiotics. Automated synthesis of new molecules and proteins. Using a team-based, collaborative science approach, researchers at the IGB are addressing these and other complex issues. Our main areas of research below are each supported by our strong commitment to fundamental science – the pursuit of discovery.

Health & Wellness

Health +
Wellness

How the genome enhances, affects, or disrupts physical and mental wellbeing.

Health & Wellness Research

Technology & Socety

Tech +
Society

Advancing our capability to shape the world and capacity to understand each other.

Tech & society research

Agriculture & Energy

Ag +
Energy

Sustainably feeding and fueling a planet impacted by a changing global climate.

Ag & Energy Research

Outreach & Public Engagement

Outreach &
Public Engagement

Encouraging the public to understand how genomics affects daily life and society.

Outreach programs

Biomarker Volume 19

Spotlight

Exploring the intersection of AI and genomics

Biomarker Vol.19

Featured Stories

Stephen P. Long: Celebrating a career of innovation and impact
The proposed viral testing method will be developed for fast, easy and affordable use by healthcare providers at community testing centers.
Howard Gritton (left) and Paul Bonthuis. Jozien Goense not pictured. Elizabeth Bello, Beckman Communications Office.
In a new book, U. of I. professors Rebecca Smith, left, Rachel Roegman, right, and their colleagues in public health describe how communities can work together to keep their K-12 students safe and learning during a public health crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic. Photo by Michelle Hassel
Stephen Long, Stanley O. Ikenberry Endowed Chair Emeritus (deceased)
Illinois researcher Diwaker Shukla shows how deep learning and large-scale computer simulations can help lead the search for safe synthetic cannabinoid-based pharmaceuticals. Photo by Fred Zwicky