Arkansas Biosciences Institute
The Arkansas Biosciences Institute (ABI) is where research creates real-world impact.
As part of a five-member consortium, ABI leads important work in science, education,
and technology. Our focus is on improving health and life sciences in Arkansas and
beyond. Explore our research, meet the experts, and see how you can get involved or
partner with us.
Driving Discoveries
Behind every number is a discovery, a breakthrough, or a new opportunity. Here’s how
ABI is driving real-world impact through research and innovation.

4Core research areas: Bioinformatics, Health Sciences, Environmental & Health-Focused
Plant Innovation, and Engineering
36Specialized labs designed for high-impact biosciences research
8,500+Research publications produced through ABI-supported research since day one
The Heart of Bioscience
Learn what drives the Arkansas Biosciences Institute. Discover our history and our
mission, vision, and core values. Then explore how we combine top-tier research with
hands-on learning to improve lives in Arkansas.
Our Labs
Where Innovation Takes Shape
Our 88,000-square-foot facility supports advanced research with labs for imaging,
molecular biology, and more. Whether you're a student, faculty member, or research
partner, you’ll have access to the tools you need.
Opportunities for Students & Faculty
Dive deeper into ABI’s four key research areas. Learn about the work that's already
been done and see how you can get involved. We have research opportunities for undergraduate
and graduate students as well as faculty members.
The Changemakers
ABI is powered by a dedicated team of faculty and staff who bring energy, expertise,
and mentorship to their work. From leading innovative research to supporting day-to-day
lab operations, they make big discoveries possible. And they make sure students are
part of the research process. Whether you're planning a career in research or exploring
partnerships, you'll find experts here who are ready to guide and support you.
ABI is powered by a dedicated team of faculty and staff who bring energy, expertise,
and mentorship to their work. From leading innovative research to supporting day-to-day
lab operations, they make big discoveries possible. And they make sure students are
part of the research process. Whether you're planning a career in research or exploring
partnerships, you'll find experts here who are ready to guide and support you.
Areas of Expertise
From driving cutting-edge biochemistry to advancing sustainable engineering, researchers
at ABI are tackling some of today’s biggest scientific questions. Here are just a
few fields where we’re transforming the future:
- Molecular biophysics
- Effects of stress on physiology in wildlife
- Community Ecology
- Plant-symbiont interactions
- Plant metabolic engineering
- Plant stress tolerance
- Biomedical imaging analysis
- Thermodynamics
- Cancerous transformation
- Sustainable engineering

I got to be part of a NASA-sponsored project … Arkansas State actually was one of
the ones chosen to send an experiment to the International Space Station.
Shea Harris, Outreach Coordinator ABI Faculty and Staff
Need access to advanced computing power or help with IT at ABI? Get the tools and
guidance to power your research, from on-site support to the Pete Supercomputer.
Education. Community. Outreach.
Education. Community. Outreach.
Get Involved at ABI
We know that curiosity starts early and researchers come at all ages. Join us for
community programs that take you inside the labs and explore the wonders of discovery.
From school group tours to events that welcome the community, be sure to check out
all we have to offer year-round.

Take a closer look at our impact. The ABI Annual Report highlights research achievements,
faculty and student success stories, and key milestones from the past year.
Like and follow us for news, event highlights, and a behind-the-scenes look at the
research happening every day at the Arkansas Biosciences Institute.
Help fuel future discoveries. Your support makes it possible for our students and
faculty to pursue research that improves lives across Arkansas and beyond.
Dive into our most recent updates and find out how ABI is moving science forward.