Division of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Biological Chemistry

The division supports a broad spectrum of research aimed at obtaining a molecular-level understanding of biological processes and approaches to their control. Research funded takes a multifaceted approach to problems in pharmacology, physiology, biochemistry, and biological chemistry that are very fundamental in nature. NIGMS supports a variety of research opportunities including fellowships, career awards, research grants, technology development awards, and small business grants.

The division has two components: the Pharmacological and Physiological Sciences Branch and the Biochemistry and Bio-related Chemistry Branch. For a list of all staff and links to their biographical sketches, see the Division Staff Contacts page. Research areas supported by both branches and contact names are listed on the Contacts by Research Area page. Note that some research related to this division’s areas falls within the mission of other institutes and centers at NIH; for this reason, advance contact with staff is always recommended.

Pharmacological and Physiological Sciences Branch

This branch supports basic and clinical research studies in these areas:

  • Anesthesia and Pain
  • Cell Surface Receptors​ and Ion Channe​ls
  • Drug Metabolism, Transport, and Kinetics
  • Inflammation and Innate Immunity in Systemic Disorders
  • Injury and Critical Illness Syndromes
  • Intracellular Mediators of Signal Transduction
  • Intercellular Communications and Blockers
  • Membrane Proteins, Lipids, and Scaffolding
  • Multi-Organ Physiology
  • Packaging and Delivery of Molecules and Biologics
  • Sepsis and Septic Shock (see NOT-GM-19-054 for NIGMS Priorities)
  • Wound Healing

The branch offers limited funding for Investigator-Initiated Clinical Trials in specific Clinical Research Areas that fit within the mission of NIGMS.

Biochemistry and Bio-related Chemistry Branch

This branch supports basic research studies in these areas:

  • Bioenergetics and Mitochondria
  • Chemical Biology
  • Chemical Catalysis and Reactions
  • Design and Synthesis of Chemical Probes
  • Enzyme Mechanisms, Regulation, and Inhibition
  • Glycosciences
  • Metallobiology and Homeostasis
  • Natural Products Discovery and Analysis
  • Biological Redox Reactions
  • Synthetic Biology/Engineering
  • Synthesis of Complex Molecules
  • Technology Development, including Chemical Tools

Both branches also offer funding for investigators interested in the NIGMS Technology Development programs.

Potential applicants are encouraged to examine the research areas the division supports and to make contact directly with the relevant program directors. We also suggest subscribing to the NIGMS Feedback Loop posts to learn about NIGMS’ programs.

For more information, contact:

Rochelle M. Long, Ph.D.
Director, Division of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Biological Chemistry
National Institute of General Medical Sciences
National Institutes of Health
45 Center Drive MSC 6200
Bethesda, MD 20892-6200

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