Welcome to The John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics (HIHG) at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine (UMMSM). Using the latest cutting-edge technology, the goal of the Institute is to identify genes involved in human diseases for the diagnosis, intervention, and prevention of illness.
The HIHG was established at the UMMSM in January 2007. The scientists at our Institute are among the first researchers realizing the potential of the Human Genome Project, the working genetic map of human DNA that was completed in 2003.
With UMMSM ranked No. 2 in the nation for human genetics research funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), human genetics and genomics researchers at the HIHG are leaders in the application of clinical, molecular, cellular and statistical techniques to identify genes contributing to human disease. Our high productivity comes from 21 faculty members and over 120 staff members, all of whom are part of the four Centers housing HIHG strategic operations: Center for Genome Technology (CGT), Center for Genetic Epidemiology and Statistical Genetics (CGESG), Center for Genomic Education and Outreach (C-GEO), and Center for Molecular Genetics (CMG).
At the Center for Genome Technology, we apply state-of-the-art technology and develop new methods to enable the study and analysis of research fields ranging from human disease to microbial genetics. The Center for Genetic Epidemiology and Statistical Genetics focuses on sophisticated study design and analytic approaches to complex disease genomics, facilitating studies to identify genes responsible for complex diseases in families and in diverse populations. In the Center for Genomic Education and Outreach we strive to communicate the results of our genomic studies to researchers and participants, emphasizing the importance of participation from our diverse community, ultimately using genomic data to improve health care options and outcomes. Lastly, the Center for Molecular Genetics is a world-class research program utilizing innovative molecular genetics, biochemical and cell biological methods to discover and characterize how specific genetic variations influence human health and disease.
Our faculty are internationally recognized leaders in human genetics and genomics who seek to improve human health both through research discoveries and by training the next generation of scientists. While the study of Alzheimer disease and related disorders is the largest research focus area at the HIHG, we also have robust programs in other neurological diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson disease, neuropathy, and autism; sensory age-related disorders such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, and deafness; susceptibility to infectious diseases such as HIV, tuberculosis, and bacteremia, and genetic studies of sports-related injuries. Recognizing the importance of extending the benefits of genomic studies to all, we have emphasized the inclusion of participants with diverse ancestral backgrounds in these studies. The diversity of the south Florida community is an important engine that drives these efforts.
We strive through our research to produce more meaningful, applicable results that directly benefit human health and to move basic science discoveries more quickly and efficiently into patient-based applications. We invite you to explore our research projects and contact us if you are interested in participation or learning more about our efforts.
Margaret A. Pericak-Vance, Ph.D.
Director, John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics
Dr. John T Macdonald Foundation Professor of Human Genetics
Executive Vice Chair, Dr. John T Macdonald Foundation Department of Human Genetics