Fundamental Research

Fundamental research is open-ended investigation that seeks to unlock the biological, chemical, molecular and genetic underpinnings of life.

Fundamental research is the process of learning the basic rules of life. The applications are wide-ranging, including new and improved devices, diagnostics and treatments, more accurate imaging technology and better organ donor matching.

At Massachusetts General Hospital, the innovations made by our fundamental researchers are part of a continuum of discovery that includes translational research, clinical research and trials, outcomes research and the contributions made by patients to our life registry.

The fundamental research conducted in our laboratories has led to new insights about cell behavior, biochemistry and the relationship between genetics and disease.

Fundamental research is by nature open-ended and unpredictable. Our scientists often go into an investigation expecting one outcome, only to discover something completely different.

It is often those unexpected discoveries that become the biggest game changers.

A Collaborative Environment

Once a new scientific discovery is made, Mass General's uniquely collaborative environment enables our fundmamental scientists to team up with clinicians to speed the development of new diagnostics, treatments and devices.

Likewise, if an insight from a clinical trial suggests a new area to investigate in the lab, our researchers can pursue that avenue of thought and let our clinicians know what they discover.