Pharmacology

About us

The Department of Pharmacology is made up of a dynamic group of faculty and staff dedicated to advancing biomedical research and educating the next generation of scientists and researchers. Our faculty participate in several graduate programs and are highly involved in teaching in the medical school curriculum.

Training Nevada's future M.D.'s

The Department of Pharmacology Research is committed to creating valuable learning opportunities for future physicians. Medical students participate in lab courses as well as research projects and learn how drugs bring about therapeutic responses to adapt to the changing landscape of pharmacology. Participating in groundbreaking research as a student contributes to the pursuit of advancing public health through education and research.

Research labs

Our researchers combine principles of molecular biology, biophysics, electrophysiology and pathology to create a comprehensive foundation for deepening our understanding of treating diseases. We conduct research in several areas of study including cardiovascular health, myometrial function, electrophysiology and muscular dystrophies.

The long-term goal of this research is to develop novel therapeutics to treat human diseases and improve outcomes in patients. Faculty in our department are the recipients of millions of dollars in grants from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and other governmental and private institutions, including our COBRE and INBRE programs to advance our biomedical research infrastructure.

Pharmacology News

A group of researchers standing outside wearing the same t-shirt that reads "G.L.O.A.T." with a heart on it.

How bioprinting is advancing reproductive research

Pharmacology and engineering students and faculty develop bioprinted uterine models

Headshot of Heather Burkin.

Meet a UNR Med Scientist – Heather Burkin, Ph.D.

Heather Burkin is advancing maternal health through innovative research and multidisciplinary collaboration

Headshot of Lauren Parker

A passion for learning: Ph.D. candidate reflects on the importance of growing from mistakes

Lauren Parker studies cellular molecular pharmacology and physiology

Our team

Led by a diverse team of pharmacologists, physicians and researchers, the Department of Pharmacology contributes to a variety of academic programs and interdisciplinary graduate research programs, including the Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology Graduate Program (CMPP), the Cell and Molecular Biology Program (CMB) and the Biomedical Engineering Program (BME). Together, we are expanding personalized treatment options for patients by developing safe, effective and scientific-based therapies.