Foundational research at the Institute focuses on the investigation of organisms, tissues, and cells to understand the many mechanisms underlying human health and disease. Our #RoadToResearch series features some of the many people who help drive scientific discovery for the benefit of humanity. Learn more about what led each of these scientists and researchers to pursue a career in science.
"I want to help scientists realize that more connections between more species is beneficial to their work, to everyone’s work."
“I am fortunate to work at a place where we are all able to collectively contribute to realizing the vision and mission of our founders, Jim and Virginia Stowers.”
"I was familiar with the Stowers Institute’s reputation for scientific excellence and intellectual freedom. I knew that was the type of environment in which I wanted to work."
"I love that I am doing my part to understand a little portion of the unknown for humanity."
"I then made it my goal to be a part of the Stowers Institute one day!"
"Helping scientists achieve their project goals is hugely satisfying. I can get just as excited about someone else's data as I can about my own!"
"I couldn't ask for a better fit for my personality."
"We cannot overstate the importance of basic neurobiological research in terms of its potential to help against a variety of neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases."
"Every day presents a new challenge, a new question, and a new opportunity to positively impact the research community."
"It excites me to know that, as a team, we can accomplish things that few people in the world can do, and the Institute enables us to do that by providing all the necessary resources."
News
10 July 2025
Stowers Assistant Investigator Kamena Kostova, Ph.D., earned the 2025 Alumni Early-Career Award from UCSF in recognition of her significant scientific achievements.
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Press Release
26 June 2025
Kamena Kostova, Ph.D., is among a select group of scientists recognized nationwide for their promise to help shape the future of scientific discovery.
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News
25 June 2025
"My advice would be to choose the path that makes you feel comfortable and curious."
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Exploring the fundamental processes of biology is essential in our quest to understand the secrets of life. Learn more about the importance of foundational research and explore the research areas of the Stowers Institute.
Research at Stowers
