Magee-Womens Research Institute

Magee-Womens Research Institute (MWRI) is a home for University of Pittsburgh researchers who are engaged in research that spans reproductive biology and development and diverse aspects of women’s health. Key physiological processes and diseases that span a woman's entire life cycle are pursued – from the formation of germ cells and embryos through childhood and adolescence to reproductive life, pregnancy, menopause, and aging.

MWRI's researchers use a variety of basic, translational, and clinical investigative tools that support our central mission to:

  • Advance knowledge in the field of reproductive biology and medicine
  • Translate discoveries into improved health for women and their infants
  • Train the next generation of reproductive sciences scholars

Welcome

MWRI was established in 1992 as an independent research institute and the research arm of the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences (OBGYNRS) of the University of Pittsburgh. Initially located in a 50,000 sq ft remodeled building on Craft Avenue, across the street from Magee-Womens Hospital, the Institute’s research building expanded in 2007 to include 125,000 sq ft of modern laboratory facilities, core space, and conference rooms. From its inception, the Institute was well recognized nationally for its research. Now in our second decade, we have grown from approximately 20 faculty members to more than 100 faculty and more than 300 employees.

Our Approach

The Institute includes basic, translational, and clinical faculty researchers from the University of Pittsburgh's Department of OBGYNRS as well as from other departments at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine such as Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Cell Biology and Physiology, Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Medicine, Pediatrics, Psychiatry, Pathology, Surgery, Family Medicine, Anesthesiology and Urology, Graduate School of Public Health (Epidemiology, Human Genetics, Environmental and Occupational Health and Behavioral and Community Health Sciences), Pharmacy (Pharmaceutical Sciences), and Swanson School of Engineering (Bioengineering). MWRI's collaborative approach to research, affiliation with the University of Pittsburgh and Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC, and location immediately adjacent to Magee’s large clinical patient care center further buttresses the strengths of our individual research programs.

Whereas laboratory-based research is housed primarily within the research building on Craft Avenue, patient-based research is conducted at Magee-Womens Hospital and other UPMC clinical facilities located throughout the Oakland academic community. This structure fosters unique opportunities for collaboration among our investigators and a rich environment for our training programs.

Our Board

Our Board of Directors, led by the Board President, Margaret P, Joy, JD, oversees the Institute. Our Board provides a vital link to the Pittsburgh community and beyond through sponsorship of outreach programs, publication of volunteer opportunities, and building financial support.