Looking Forward

Our laboratory has completed the first year of our second quarter-century of research. What lies ahead is anyone’s guess, but I am very optimistic that science and our efforts to advance will remain on an increasingly positive trajectory. There is a multitude of reasons for this, but there are two that particularly stand out—first, the people, and second, the resources required to support the basic research enterprise that the Center and our Institution offers.

Over the past twenty-six years at Harvard, I have been blessed to work with hundreds of fellows, students, visiting scientists, research assistants, research scientists, research associates, technicians, and support staff. Many have come here as newly minted PhDs, others at the conclusion of their bachelor’s program, seeking to enter the field of scientific research in an effort to understand if this is their true passion. Still, others have come to work with us having experienced multiple successes, looking to contribute to a dynamic team while taking their skills to the next level. Serving as a mentor for all, I endeavor to recognize and celebrate their individuality. It is the various gifts that each individual has brought to the fore, in a collaborative and supportive effort, to focus on bringing the most creative and original thoughts to the crucible that is our laboratory.

Representing a multitude of diverse ethnicities, religions, cultural and educational experiences, fascinating personal stories, and traits, these individuals have been able to come together to make essential discoveries. Together we continue to untangle the mysteries of metabolism in our journey to answer some of the most vexing questions that have prevented humans from solving the greatest public health threats—chronic diseases. The team that is the Sabri Ülker Center is, therefore, able to bring together our combined intellectual and creative dynamism with our invaluable collaborators throughout the world, in seeking the answers to these questions—questions we must seek answers for, in order to generate translational impact and to improve the quality of human life for all.

Visit us: www.gsh.sph.harvard.edu Follow us: @sabriulkerctr NUTRIENT, GENETIC, and METABOLIC RESEARCH