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.

Pharmacological and Physiological Sciences Branch

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

  • Adaptive Immune Cell Mechanisms
  • Anesthesia and Pain
  • Calcium Signaling and Compartmentalization
  • Cell Surface Receptors, Ligands, and Interactions
  • Drug Metabolism, Transport, and Kinetics
  • Inflammation and Innate Immunity
  • Injury and Critical Illness
  • Intracellular Mediators of Signal Transduction
  • Membrane Channels
  • Membrane Components and Cell-to-Cell Communications
  • 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
  • Design and Synthesis of Chemical Probes
  • Enzyme Mechanisms, Regulation, and Inhibition
  • Enzymology of Nucleic Acid Modifiers
  • Glycosciences
  • Metallobiology
  • Natural Products Discovery and Analysis
  • Nucleic Acid, Peptide, and Protein Chemistry
  • Pathways of Intermediary Metabolism and Catalysis
  • Redox Reactions and Oxidative Stress
  • Synthetic Biology
  • Synthetic Methods
  • Synthesis of Complex Molecules
  • Trace Metal Transport and Homeostasis

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

Potential applicants are encouraged to examine the research portfolios​ NIGMS supports and to make contact directly with the relevant program directors.

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​