Research

What do an AIDS vaccine, treatments for cocaine addiction and better understanding of hormonal effects on behavior have in common with safer drugs for organ transplant recipients, preventing childhood-onset visual problems and expanding cognition research? They all are key research programs taking place at the Yerkes National Primate Research Center.

As one of only eight National Institutes of Health–designated national primate research centers, Yerkes is unique in its position to carry out such diverse research. In addition to the core faculty who work within the Divisions of Microbiology and Immunology, Neuroscience, Psychobiology and Sensory-Motor Systems, Yerkes serves as a resource for researchers throughout the world. The Yerkes Division of Research Resources supports the center's researchers and animal colonies as well as coordinates the distribution of samples and the availability of services to outside investigators.

Yerkes researchers also are collaborating with colleagues from around the world to gain new insight into diverse fields of study. Through partnerships with affiliated centers and organizations, Yerkes serves as a resource and collaborator in such research initiatives as finding vaccines, combating some of the world’s most challenging health problems and studying the evolution of cooperation, affiliation and reconciliation.