Mission Statement

The Virumbrales Muñoz Laboratory at the University of Wisconsin–Madison is dedicated to advancing biomedical knowledge across several interconnected domains, with an overall focus of functional biological changes. We have a particular interest in inflammatory conditions and vascularized environments, which are applicable to many biological scenarios such as cancer or preeclampsia. Leveraging innovative bioengineering methods, particularly microphysiological systems (MPS), our lab explores fundamental biological mechanisms underlying inflammatory conditions and disease progression. Our interdisciplinary approach integrates precision medicine strategies, focusing on patient-specific responses to therapeutic interventions.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive, collaborative, and rigorous training environment that cultivates the next generation of scientists skilled in immunology, reproductive biology, cancer research, and bioengineering. Our core values include meeting each student where they are at and fostering their progress to an independent research career. Aligned with NIH directives, our training philosophy emphasizes rigorous experimental design, transparent and reproducible science, ethical research conduct, and comprehensive data management practices.

Ultimately, our goal is the translation of basic research into meaningful clinical applications, fostering collaboration across scientific disciplines, clinical practices, and the broader biomedical community to improve patient outcomes globally.