The Biological Systems Science Division manages a diverse portfolio of fundamental research
and technology development to achieve a predictive, systems-level understanding of complex biological systems
to advance DOE missions in energy, climate, and environment. The division was formed from the merger of the formerly
separate Life Sciences Division and the Medical Sciences Division. Specific research areas include:
Genomics Research
- Genomics:GTL Research -
to underpin the development of biotechnology solutions for energy, the environment, and carbon sequestration.
This program will develop genome-scale technologies needed to understand the function of microbial and plant systems, from proteomics to metabolomics
to regulatory networks to ecogenomics. Genomics:GTL’s goal is to develop the computational capabilities and systems needed to predictively design and
model complex biological systems.
- GTL Bioenergy Research Centers - to accelerate genomics-based systems biology research to achieve the transformational breakthroughs
in basic science needed for the development of cost-effective technologies to make production of next-generation biofuels from lignocellulose, or plant fiber,
commercially viable on a national scale.
Radiochemistry and Instrumentation - supports fundamental research in radiochemistry and radiotracer
development activities that include development of new methodologies for real-time, high-resolution imaging of dynamic biological processes
in energy- and environment-relevant contexts.
Artificial Retina - utilizes the resources of the national laboratories in material sciences, engineering, microfabrication,
and microengineering to develop unique neuroprostheses and continue development of an artificial retina to restore sight to the blind.
Low Dose Radiation Research - to understand and characterize the risks to human health from exposures to low
levels of radiation.
Ethical, Legal and Social Issues (ELSI) - supports Office of Science interests in bioenergy, synthetic biology, and nanotechnology, including communication of the societal
implications arising from these programs.
DOE Human Subjects Protection Program - to ensure compliance with Federal regulations and DOE Orders to protect
human subjects. All research conducted at DOE, supported with DOE funds, or performed by DOE employees must comply.
Scientific User Facilities
- Structural
Biology - to develop and support DOE national user facilities for use in fundamental structural biology.
- DOE Joint Genome Institute to advance genomics
in support of the DOE missions in energy, climate, and environment.
For additional information about these specific programs, please contact
an appropriate
staff
member.