The University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health in Madison is committed to improving the health of Wisconsin and beyond through service, scholarship, science and social responsibility. We are developing new approaches for preventing, diagnosing and treating illness by uniting the principles and power of traditional medicine and public health. Learn more about our mission and vision
We train tomorrow's health care leaders
The School of Medicine and Public Health seeks the very best students who will care for patients with compassion and empathy, work to improve the health and well-being of populations and fearlessly push the boundaries of scientific inquiry.
Graduate programs (MS/PhD)
Our programs in biomedical and population health sciences and related disciplines provide rigorous training for the next generation of scientists.
Paradigm-changing discoveries
From the development of SPF ratings to finding new ways to treat cancer, our researchers have established a legacy of translating laboratory discoveries into clinical treatments. Here are just a few of our paradigm-changing innovations.
1958
Joshua Lederberg awarded the Nobel Prize for his work on bacteria reproduction and antibiotic resistance.
1975
Howard Temin is named co-recipient of the Nobel Prize in medicine for discovering reverse transcriptase, the enzyme that explains how retroviruses cause cancer and AIDS.
1998
James Thomson and his research team become the first in the world to derive a human embryonic stem cell line.
Today's advances, tomorrow's cures
From the tiniest cells to Big Data, our investigators are making key discoveries that lead to better treatments. Elizabeth Burnside, MD, MPH, is using computer technology and a growing collection of clinical data to develop computer-based decision making tools for breast imaging to enhance breast cancer screening and diagnosis.
The School of Medicine and Public Health has a deep and profound commitment to diversity, both as an end in itself, and as a valuable means for eliminating health disparities.
Latest news
Electronic records pin broad set of health risks on genetic premutation
08/21/2019
It was long believed the FMR1 premutation — an excessive number of trinucleotide repeats in the FMR1 gene — had no direct effect on the people who carry it. Until recently, the only recognized effect on the carriers of the flawed gene was the risk...
After heart attack, former Badgers wide receiver J.C. Dawkins focuses on spreading healthy habits
08/20/2019
Wisconsin Badger, Rose Bowl champion, football coach, husband, father, mentor, friend — and heart attack survivor. J.C. Dawkins has held many titles throughout his football career and life, but the one he least expected — heart attack survivor — i...
Single protein plays important dual shipping role in the brain
08/15/2019
Just as a packaging breakdown can hamstring delivery of cables, switches and connectors to a house under construction, removing a protein from neurons can block the “shipment” of proteins to developing axons.
Changing a single molecule in the brain can alleviate anxiety
08/15/2019
A new study shows, for the first time in primates, that altering one particular molecule in a specific brain region can change “dispositional anxiety,” the tendency to perceive many situations as threatening. The finding provides hope ...
Elizabeth Nugent named chief clinical research officer
08/15/2019
Elizabeth “Betsy” Nugent, MSPH, CCRP, will become the inaugural Director of Clinical Trials Development and Accreditation/Chief Clinical Research Officer, effective September 3. Nugent is charged with leading the establishment of the S...
Q&A with new Clinical Continuing Education Director Marcia Slattery
08/14/2019
Marcia Slattery, M.D., MHSc, professor of psychiatry and pediatrics in the School of Medicine and Public Health, was recently appointed Clinical Continuing Education Director in the Office of Continuing Professional Development in Medicine and Pub...
Study finds major surgery is associated with minor cognitive decline
08/08/2019
A new study by researchers at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health has revealed that major surgery is associated with only a minor decline in cognitive ability.
UW launches nation's first cell therapy trial for kidney transplant patients
08/06/2019
For the first time in the United States, a research team will test a personalized cell therapy to treat a common and serious complication facing kidney transplant patients.
Lessons of conventional imaging let scientists see around corners
08/05/2019
Along with flying and invisibility, high on the list of every child’s aspirational superpowers is the ability to see through or around walls or other visual obstacles.
Fear of more dangerous second Zika, dengue infections unfounded in monkeys
08/05/2019
An initial infection with dengue virus did not prime monkeys for an especially virulent infection of Zika virus, according to a study at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Nor did a bout with Zika make a follow-on dengue infection more...
Embracing the Wisconsin Idea
Our school's engagement extends across the entire state. We are deeply committed to improving the health of the people of Wisconsin, and in doing so, creating innovative models for the rest of the country. Through our academic campuses, our faculty and students participate in statewide education and research, with an emphasis on underserved rural and urban populations.
Committed to a healthier Wisconsin
The Wisconsin Partnership Program funds education initiatives, research and community health programs targeting the state's vital health needs, serving as a shining example of the Wisconsin Idea.
Statewide campus
The borders of our campus extend to the entire state. Medical students learn from hundreds of volunteer physicians at hospitals and clinics throughout Wisconsin.
Remarkable care
The faculty physicians of UW Health care for patients at University Hospital, UW Carbone Cancer Center, American Family Children's Hospital and other local and regional hospitals and clinics.
Help us lead the way
As a world-class institution, our impact resonates around the world. By supporting the School of Medicine and Public Health, you'll help us continue to inspire students, expand research and advance the health and well-being of the people of Wisconsin and beyond.