Why does ISB need to seek funds?

The Institute for Systems Biology was established in 2000 through royalties and seed money from its three founders, and over the years ISB has been continuously supported by federal grants and corporate partnerships. But today it is not feasible to rely on the previous mentioned sources. Private philanthropy is necessary to support a research center with an annual operating budget of more than $3 million.

Don't federal grants provide generously for the nation's scientists?

Federal grants in support of specific research projects cover only a small percentage of ISB's annual operating costs. No scientific institution can afford to rely exclusively on federal aid, for a number of reasons. The level of this support can fluctuate dramatically from year to year. Most federal grants cannot be used to purchase even the most important research equipment. This is a critical disadvantage as scientific breakthroughs increasingly rely on expensive instrumentation and technology. Finally, federal support for young scientists is extremely limited. Private philanthropy is essential to ensure the future of science through the recruitment of gifted new researchers.

Can my gift really make a difference?

Yes. Private gifts and grants make the critical difference in enabling ISB to support its research programs, all the more so because ISB does not derive substantial income from certain sources that more conventional institutions of its type rely on. It has neither a large base of alumni nor of "grateful patients." Every gift makes a difference.