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Graduate School

What makes life work?

By uncovering the secrets underlying fundamental biological processes, we can find innovative approaches to diagnose, treat, and prevent disease.

Foundational science. Profound implications.

Discovery

Foundational research is where cures begin. Discoveries resulting from studying the fundamental processes of life frequently prove to be major milestones toward novel therapies and treatments.

Research

Innovation

World-class equipment and collaborative partnerships. Our researchers work side-by-side with experts in our Technology Centers. The unique model has catapulted the Institute to the forefront of innovative science.

Technology Centers

Hope

We are dedicated to encouraging motivated individuals to pursue science or science-related professions — from our accredited Graduate School to our training programs for post-docs, post-bacs and undergrads.

Education & Outreach

25 Years of Discovery

The Stowers Institute is dedicated to the next 25 years of biological discovery. In the words of our founders, “The best is yet to be.” Learn how we are honoring the milestone and celebrating the future of biological discovery. Explore a timeline of the Institute's history, hear from founding members, and reflect on the vision of Jim and Virginia Stowers.

25 Years of Discovery

Stowers Institute at a Glance

  • $2B

    Spent on research

  • 500

    Members

  • 10

    Acre campus

  • 150

    Ongoing research projects

Quick Facts

Stowers Research Conferences: Ribosome Heterogeneity and Translational Control from Cells to Organisms

Join us for the fall 2026 Stowers Research Conference. Registration is now open!

Oct 21-23, 2026

Register now

Our unique funding model allows the freedom to explore the unexpected.

Transformational science requires the transformation of science. Through the unparalleled generosity and vision of our founders, Jim and Virginia Stowers, we have a scientific ecosystem that encourages discovery and innovation. Jim, founder of American Century Investments, and Virginia followed their initial generous investment by establishing a funding model that provides ongoing support of our research through the annual dividends from American Century Investments. Because of this structure, Stowers scientists are uniquely positioned to explore with freedom, and allowed the ability to follow biological avenues that lead to novel discoveries and to share their findings for the betterment of humanity.

American Century Investments

Stowers Resource Management

The Latest News & Events

What if...?

30 June 2026

What if solving one of biology's oldest mysteries could help shape the future of medicine?

The third story in the Institute's 'What If?' series follows Assistant Investigator Arvind Pillai, Ph.D., explores one of biology's deepest unanswered questions: How does evolution create something entirely new? By reconstructing ancient proteins that disappeared hundreds of millions, even billions, of years ago, Pillai's lab is uncovering the principles that gave rise to life's molecular machinery. Those same principles could one day help scientists engineer entirely new proteins capable of delivering drugs and treating disease. Discover how a lifelong fascination with nature's complexity became a scientific pursuit that stretches from Earth's distant past to the future of medicine.

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See the latest news

Our Organisms

Answers to fundamental questions of biology can be found by turning to nature. From mice, fruit flies, yeast, and bacteria, to plants, planarians, sea anemones, coral, killifish, apple snails, and more, a broad range of research organisms reside at the Institute.

Cared for by dedicated teams of technicians, each was carefully chosen based on their ability to solve specific biological questions — aiding in advancing our understanding of how life works. 

Learn more about our organisms and their extraordinary biological feats.

Learn more

Defining New Frontiers

Kansas City: born from a spirit of discovery

Incredible science comes from curious and creative minds. Our bold and innovative approach to research is the perfect match for the dynamic culture and profound pride you’ll find in Kansas City. Similar to the Stowers Institute, Kansas City is pushing boundaries. An incredible food and music scene, world-class art institutions, and championship sports teams are just a few of the great attributes that set KC apart. See why we’ve chosen the heart of the country as our home.

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