The Molecular Biology Laboratory was founded in 2006 as a basic research department at SUMC. The objective of our center is to understand biological processes on the molecular level though performing basic research.

Our research work focuses on the mechanisms by which master gene co-regulators govern cancer events including metastasis, cancer stem cells, cancer therapy resistance and cancer-related metabolism, with the ultimate aim to develop targeted therapy and individualized treatment in cancer disease. As a key basic research laboratory within SUMC, we provide research support and technical assistance to other departments and fellow scientists at SUMC. At the same time, our center is also an important training base for master and PhD students.

Our lab area covers a space of over 500 m² and includes a cell-culture room, a microscope room, a PCR room, and a specimen bank. Our facilities are equipped with state-of-the art technology including an ABI PRISM 3100 Genetic Analyzer, ABI 7700 Real-Time PCR Instrument, AKTA Purifier and High-performance Capillary Electrophoresis System, CMB, etc.

Our lab staff currently consists of 3 permanent members. The lab is headed by Prof. Hao Zhang, who is also director of SUMC's Cancer Research Center.