What is ChEM-H?

Pioneering a new model of scientific research

At Sarafan ChEM-H, we aim to create an environment that reflects the future of academic research. The heart of Sarafan ChEM-H is our researchers--the faculty, staff, and trainees who call on interdisciplinary toolsets and collaboration to solve big problems in human health. We are committed to recruiting and fostering a scientific community whose diversity reflects that of society.

Recruiting and training the next generation of molecular scientists

Our researchers and clinicians bridge disciplines, pulling from specialized training in chemistry, engineering, biology, and medicine to form innovative and collaborative research programs. Our diverse faculty includes our Institute Scholars, hired by the Institute in conjunction with Stanford schools and departments, and affiliated Faculty Fellows.  

Central to the Sarafan ChEM-H mission is the education of a new type of researcher and future scientific leader who is fluent in multiple scientific languages to transform our approach to human health. Our graduate, undergraduate, and postdoctoral programs prepare our trainees to pioneer new basic science discoveries, develop breakthrough diagnostics and therapeutics, and revolutionize healthcare.

Accelerating innovation for human health

Sarafan ChEM-H provides programming, resources, and expertise to encourage collaboration and accelerate discovery and translation. Our Knowledge Centers connect researchers with talented staff scientists, tools, and techniques in medicinal chemistry, metabolomics, macromolecular structure, and high throughput screening. ChEM-H forms the foundation of the Innovative Medicines Accelerator, which helps Stanford scientists cross the barriers that separate drug prototypes developed in the lab from human clinical testing.

Seed grants, postdoctoral fellowships, and industry partnerships, among other programs, provide ChEM-H funding to individuals and initiatives pushing the boundaries of human health research.