School Of Medicine Basic Sciences

Vanderbilt scientists shed light on how the enteric nervous system—sometimes called the "brain" of the gut—forms and functions, offering insights that may advance treatments for gut motility disorders like irritable bowel syndrome and chronic constipation. Read More

Juan Carvajal-García has been named a 2025 Destination Biochemistry Advanced Postdoctoral Scholar, a distinction granted by the Department of Biochemistry at the School of Medicine Basic Sciences. The award will support his transition into an independent research position. Read More

Vanderbilt biochemists find role for lipids in age-related vision loss—and pave the way for potential new therapies. Read More

Vanderbilt University welcomed 48 undergraduate researchers from 30 institutions across the country to present their work at the 2025 Vanderbilt Summer Science Academy Poster Symposium. Read More

Richard Gustin, PhD’10, sat down with us to discuss his experience studying basic science and pharmacology at Vanderbilt and how it played a role in his career. Gustin is now a senior director of innovation and strategic initiatives at Neurelis, Inc. Read More

Scott Hiebert, Hortense B. Ingram Chair in Cancer Research, has been named Chief Scientific Officer of the  Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas. Hiebert served as chair of the National Cancer Advisory Board and brought global recognition to the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center during his 28 years at Vanderbilt. Read More

Meet Rosalind “Roz” Johnson, a graduate education program manager who is in charge of the day-to-day activities of the Human Genetics and Neuroscience graduate programs. Read More

Recent work from a coalition of Vanderbilt labs has found clear distinctions in insulin-secreting β-cell subtypes and drawn a connection between certain subtypes and a higher risk of diabetes. Read More

Congratulations to our School of Medicine Basic Sciences members who were promoted or received new appointments between April and June 2025. These individuals significantly enrich our pursuit of pathbreaking research and contribute to the growth and success of our school. Read More

Walt Gall, PhD’02, sat down with us to discuss his experience studying basic science at Vanderbilt and how it played a role in his career. Gall is an entrepreneur in residence at the Exploration Institute. Read More