Research at Penn Medicine

As one of the world’s top research institutions, our entire health system is built on groundbreaking discoveries. With a long tradition of medical breakthroughs, Penn Medicine’s research drives discoveries that transform laboratory innovations into life-changing clinical care. We fuel a continuous cycle of inquiry—from the bench to the bedside and beyond—ensuring every study advances science and improves lives. Rooted in our commitment to progress and inspired by the needs of real people, our research drives the future of medicine.

Navigating clinical research at Penn Medicine

FDA approvals originating at Penn Medicine 

Penn Medicine’s research has led to numerous FDA-approved treatments, changing the landscape of modern medicine. 
Drew Weissman, MD, PhD writing with marker on glass window

Pioneering the future of medicine

Penn Medicine’s 250+ year history is marked by a legacy of monumental medical breakthroughs. From pioneering CAR T cell therapies to the discovery of mRNA vaccine technology, we are shaping the future of medicine through groundbreaking research and transformative treatments. 

Stories of research and innovation at Penn Medicine

Kiran Musunuru and Rebecca Ahrens-Nicklas

World’s first patient treated with personalized CRISPR therapy

In a historic medical breakthrough, a child with a rare genetic disorder has been successfully treated with a customized CRISPR gene editing therapy.

  • May 15, 2025
Illeana Casiano-Vazquez smiles, surrounded by her family at home, as they write notes to drop in a jar labeled “2025 Good Things”

Trials aim to make cancer relapse a thing of the past

“The thought is always in the back of your head: Is it lurking? Will it come back?” Clinical trials are testing methods to stop cancer from recurring.

  • Kirsten Weir
  • May 20, 2025
Carl June pointing to screen and talking to female researcher in lab

Carl June on the boundless potential of CAR T cell therapy

Carl June, MD, explains how CAR T cell therapy, which has been transformative for blood cancers, holds the potential to help millions more patients.

  • Meagan Raeke
  • August 22, 2023

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