The Endometriosis Foundation of America (EndoFound) has partnered with Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL) to launch a pioneering new research hub focused on women’s reproductive health. The Seckin Endometriosis Research Center for Women’s Health will drive scientific advancements in one of the most under-researched areas of medicine: endometriosis.
The centre is backed by a $20 million commitment- $10 million from EndoFound and a matching $10 million donation from CSHL Board Chair Marilyn Simons, PhD. The investment marks a significant milestone in funding for endometriosis research, a condition that continues to be widely neglected despite its widespread impact.
Named in honour of globally respected endometriosis surgeon Dr. Tamer Seckin, the centre will be based at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory and led by Dr. Semir Beyaz, an Assistant Professor whose research delves into the links between genetics, metabolism, immunity, and reproductive health in women.
Dr. Seckin, renowned for his development of a patented blue dye technique that improves the surgical detection of hidden endometriosis lesions, brings decades of innovation to the initiative. The centre named after him will integrate cutting-edge technologies and multidisciplinary expertise to better understand the disease’s progression and identify effective treatments.
Endometriosis affects roughly 10% of women of reproductive age and is a major contributor to infertility, chronic pelvic pain, and diminished quality of life. The condition arises when tissue resembling the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, typically in the pelvic area but potentially elsewhere.
Serving as a hub for research and collaboration, the Seckin Endometriosis Research Center aims to improve diagnostics and therapeutic options through rigorous investigation and data sharing.
EndoFound, co-founded by Dr. Seckin and advocate Padma Lakshmi, is the US’s leading non-profit dedicated to endometriosis awareness, research funding, surgical training, and policy advocacy.
