The Center for Cardiovascular Research (CCR) at Washington University School of Medicine promotes fundamental research focused on biologic processes relevant to cardiovascular disease. Under the direction of  Anthony J. Muslin, MD, a major objective of the CCR is to establish novel interfaces between cardiovascular researchers in diverse scientific disciplines, including molecular and cellular biology, physiology, biophysics, and bioorganic chemistry. Accordingly, the CCR provides a unique, horizontally structured research environment for scientists with distinct backgrounds but a common interest in diseases of the heart and vasculature. In addition, the CCR facilitates interactions between its basic scientists and clinical researchers engaged in patient-oriented research.

The CCR comprises faculty members in the Cardiovascular Division at Washington University School of Medicine who are engaged in basic research, and scientists with primary appointments in other departments throughout Washington University.

Additional objectives of the CCR are:

1) To provide an exciting and scientifically rigorous training environment for graduate students, PhD postdoctoral trainees, and MD research fellows.

2) To maintain key core resources.

3) To promote interactions with outside scientific communities in academia and industry.

The Center comprises over 10,000 square feet of laboratory space within the North Tower Addition of the Clinical Sciences Research Building.