Making Foundational Discoveries

Basic research is at the foundation of all scientific discoveries, underlying the innovative cures and treatments developed at Fred Hutch.

Founded in 1981, the Basic Sciences Division has continually evolved to be at the forefront of discovery; seeking to understand the fundamental underpinnings of our own biology as well as the dysregulations that cause disease. Our research has yielded numerous landmark breakthroughs and scientific advances. We believe an inclusive, collaborative, egalitarian and creative environment is the basis for scientific innovation and world-changing discoveries.

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Our Egalitarian Philosophy

Learn about the people and discoveries that have made the division such an amazing place over its more than forty-year history.

Accelerating Scientific Progress

The biggest leaps in medicine happen when scientists researching fundamental questions have the freedom and resources to follow where the science leads. Real-world progress comes from unraveling fundamental questions about how cells grow, work together, defend against pathogens and disease, and change with age. A deeper understanding of fundamental biology is critical to knowing what goes wrong in diseases including cancer, and how to develop better therapies.

faculty and lab

Generating New Insights

Our faculty includes investigators studying structural, genetic, molecular, cellular, developmental and evolutionary biology.  

research programs

The Basics for Discovery

Division scientists conduct cutting-edge research that explores the fundamental biology underlying health and disease. 

Fundamental Biology and Forward Thinking

Learn about our scientific leadership, job openings, upcoming events and seminars hosted by the Basic Sciences research team.

Latest Basic Sciences Division News

All Basic Sciences Division News
Fred Hutch senior staff scientist honored by Genetics Society of America Dr. Irini Topalidou receives first-of-its-kind mentorship award June 18, 2026
Dr. Toshio Tsukiyama receives the inaugural David and Deborah Lycette Endowed Chair for Cancer Research Fred Hutch endowed chair to drive fundamental discovery into how cells function May 12, 2026
Answering WHO’s call with a new way to track how well we’re fighting the flu Fred Hutch researchers’ immunity data informs global vaccine updates April 13, 2026
Fred Hutch biochemist eavesdrops on cellular debate about where to start translating genetic messages Study sheds light on how translation start-site selection can go awry in cancer and other diseases March 6, 2026