Monell Chemical Senses Center
The Monell Chemical Senses Center is the world's only independent research institute dedicated to the scientific understanding of taste and smell, focusing on advancing human health and well-being through rigorous and reproducible research.
Monell Chemical Senses Center Services
The Monell Chemical Senses Center is dedicated to scientific research in taste and smell. Their research aims to improve nutritional health, diagnose and treat diseases, address the loss of taste and smell, and digitize chemosensory data. The Center collaborates with leading international corporations in various industries, including food, beverage, fragrance, pharmaceutical, and chemical sectors. Additionally, Monell offers training programs for students and researchers to conduct independent research projects.
Monell Chemical Senses Center History
Monell Chemical Senses Center is the world's only independent research institute focused entirely on understanding taste and smell. The Center has a longstanding commitment to scientific rigor and reproducibility and is a member of the Association of Research Integrity Officers. Over the years, Monell's discoveries have influenced policies such as the FDA guidelines for sodium reduction in foods and the WHO's initiatives on childhood obesity.
Monell Chemical Senses Center Research
Monell's research encompasses sensory perception, human health, development, and behavior. Unique findings include identifying 'taste' receptors in the nose and gut with therapeutic potential and showing that flavor preferences can be influenced by a mother's diet during pregnancy. The Center's research has advanced knowledge in areas such as the impact of stress on taste and metabolism and the role of sodium in diet preferences. Collaborative, interdisciplinary efforts involve experts from various scientific fields, from neuroscientists to environmental scientists.
Monell Chemical Senses Center Collaborations
Monell maintains an extensive academic collaborative network to advance its research mission. They work closely with multinational corporations in the food, beverage, fragrance, pharmaceutical, and chemical industries. These partnerships enhance research output and application, providing diverse expertise and resources. Additionally, Monell's collaboration within academia strengthens the Center's capacity to tackle complex chemosensory research challenges.
Monell Chemical Senses Center Education and Training
The Monell Chemical Senses Center offers educational opportunities through its Science Apprenticeship Program, focusing on high school and undergraduate students, particularly those traditionally underrepresented in the sciences. Monell's training programs have supported over 400 individuals from more than 20 countries, including postbac, graduate, doctoral students, and postdoctoral fellows. The training emphasizes hands-on research experience, preparing the next generation of scientists in the field of chemosensory research.