Institute for Regenerative Medicine

All members of the Mount Sinai community with an interest in stem cell biology and/or regenerative medicine are encouraged to join the Institute for Regenerative Medicine. Open to faculty members, staff members, and trainees, membership provides the opportunity to work with a community of physicians and scientists and access exclusive resources that advance your research and clinical training. Our researchers include basic scientists focused on understanding the mechanisms of stem cell behavior, translational researchers developing preclinical models to understand human disease progression and test potential therapeutic approaches, and clinical scientists carrying out patient-oriented studies including clinical trials. Our programs include:

• Work-in-progress series and seminars
• Annual retreats
• Pilot grant programs
• Monthly happy hours
• Access to shared equipment

To apply for a membership, please send the following materials to Jessica Bauza at jessica.bauza@mssm.edu:

• National Institutes of Health-style Biosketch and other support pages
• A one-to-two paragraph statement of interest in stem cell research and/or regenerative medicine
• Please indicate which category of membership you are applying for (faculty member, staff member, or trainee member)
• Please indicate whether you wish to join the Black Family Stem Cell Institute, the Alper Center for Neural Development and Regeneration, the Center for Advancement of Blood Cancer Therapies, and/or the Center for Epithelial and Airway Biology and Regeneration

The Institute for Regenerative Medicine represents one of the world’s largest and most renowned communities of researchers in stem cell biology and regenerative medicine. We are dedicated to harnessing the amazing potential of regenerative medicine to improve the lives of patients suffering from developmental and degenerative conditions, genetic diseases, age-related diseases, and cancer. Your tax-deductible donation will accelerate our ability to bring innovative therapies to the clinic.

Our Mission

The Institute of Regenerative Medicine (IRM) DEI Committee is dedicated to empowering scientists by fostering a culture of inclusivity and opportunity. Our mission is to enhance and sustain the representation of students, trainees, and faculty from historically marginalized communities, while creating diverse pathways for training and education within the IRM.

The Challenges We Aim to Address

Despite ongoing efforts to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, historically marginalized groups and communities continue to face significant barriers in the scientific and academic fields. These challenges include limited access to resources, gaps in mentorship, systematic bias and discrimination, inequitable opportunities, and a lack of representation.

Addressing these challenges is crucial for creating a more inclusive and equitable scientific community. By tackling these issues head-on, we aim to break down barriers, provide critical support, and foster an environment where all individuals can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the field. Embracing and integrating diverse perspectives not only promotes fairness, but also accelerates scientific progress.

Our Vision for the Future

We envision a future where the scientific community reflects diverse perspectives and experiences, leading to richer, more innovative research and a more equitable academic environment. Our goal is to create an ecosystem where every individual feels valued, respected, and can excel and elevate scientific research and innovation.

How We Make it Happen

To achieve our vision, the IRM DEI Committee is committed to:

• Expanding access to laboratory research: Creating opportunities across the entire academic pipeline by enabling direct engagement in laboratory research. Participants will gain practical, hands-on experience and insights into the field of regenerative medicine.
• Building networks: Developing and maintaining mentorship relationships and providing both networking and presentation opportunities for passionate students at the high school, undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral levels.
• Supporting professional development: Offering workshops, seminars, teaching opportunities, and skill-building sessions focused on critical competencies such as research techniques, scientific communication, and career planning.
• Promoting inclusive practices in and outside of the laboratory: Implementing bias training, encouraging transparent dialogue, advocating for equitable policies, diversifying research teams, and providing equal opportunities for all.

Contact Us & Get Involved

We welcome any suggestions, feedback, or concerns regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion. Please feel free to reach out to any of our DEI committee members for further discussion or support.

We also invite individuals at all levels, including staff, trainees, and faculty, to join our DEI committee. By participating, you can help shape and strengthen our efforts to create a more inclusive and equitable environment within the Institute of Regenerative Medicine.

• Dan Hasson, dan.hasson@mssm.edu
• Alison May, ali.may@mssm.edu
• Prash Rangan, prashanth.rangan@mssm.edu