Institutional Advancement & Philanthropy

Dr. Robert F. Furchgott is a remarkable scientist who has made major contributions to understanding cardiovascular physiology and pharmacology. He is the co-winner of the 1998 Nobel Prize in Medicine or Physiology for uncovering the fundamental role that NO (nitric oxide) plays in the regulation of cardiovascular function. Dr. Furchgott was the first to discover that the body produces this substance, and that it causes blood vessels to relax. Dr. Furchgott's discoveries have helped scientists understand and find new treatments for heart and vascular diseases and a host of other conditions, ranging from immune disorders to degenerative memory loss, pulmonary disease, and sexual dysfunction. For example, doctors are using inhaled nitric oxide to help premature babies breathe when their lungs are not adequately absorbing oxygen.

The Robert F. Furchgott Society supports graduate students and fellows conducting basic science studies in a broad array of subjects. Each year one exceptionally talented graduating Ph.D. student is honored with The Robert F. Furchgott Award for Outstanding Research. Each year the society will also provide travel awards to deserving clinical or basic research fellows to underwrite the cost of presenting their research at national or international conferences. The society has established an annual Visiting Professorship and Lecture Series that will bring outstanding scientists to the Downstate campus to participate in seminars and roundtable discussions.

The Dr. Robert F. Furchgott Society Members

To become a member of the Robert F. Furchgott Society call (718) 270-4418 to join or make a gift online.