The Key Laboratory of Biomacromolecules was approved by the Chinese Academy of Sciences in September 2022, and is constructed under the auspices of the Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences. The predecessor of the laboratory was the "National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules," which was established in 1989 and was one of the first batch of National Key laboratories in China. In previous evaluations, the laboratory has been rated as excellent six times and twice won the "Advanced Group of the National Key Laboratory Program" (Golden Bull Award). Since its establishment, it has won nine second prizes in the National Natural Science Awards. On the basis of the former national key laboratory, the laboratory strengthens the cross-integration of structural biology with immunology, translational medicine and pharmacology; The laboratory integrates basic research on macromolecules with technology, innovative vaccine and biopharmaceutical research and development; The laboratory accurately selects talents and teams from the former Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, and Laboratory of Protein and Peptide Pharmaceutical, introduces top leading talents and outstanding young talents in computational biology, protein design and through reorganization and integration, constructs a new scientific research highland.

The Key Laboratory of Biomacromolecules focuses on 'Precision Control of Biomacromolecules', aiming to develop advanced techniques for precise observation of biomacromolecules and to break through core technological barriers in biological imaging. We are dedicated to developing high-end equipment with independent intellectual property rights and stable quality, enabling research into the in-situ structure and function of biomacromolecules. Our goals include uncovering the precise assembly principles of biomacromolecules, solving key scientific issues related to life and health, realizing structure-based molecular-level precision control and design and applied to innovate novel vaccines and macromolecular drugs.

Major research areas

(1) Precision Observation Techniques for Biomacromolecules, emphasizing in-situ analysis techniques and nanoscale imaging technologies for biomacromolecules.

(2) Principles of Precise Assembly of Biomacromolecules, focusing on the rules of biological supremolecular assembly and the regulatory principles of biomacromolecules in cellular dynamics.

(3) Precision Design and Control of Biomacromolecules, aiming to achieve structure-based molecular-level precision design of biomacromolecules and to apply this in the innovation of novel vaccines and macromolecular drugs.

The Key Laboratory of Biomacromolecules boasts a vibrant and innovative research team with a sound organizational structure. Currently, the laboratory is headed by Director Researcher Zhenfeng Liu, with Academic Committee Chairman Academician Fuchu He. The laboratory counts 39 academic leaders, including 4 academicians of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, 19 recipients of the National Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars (NSFC), and 6 winners of the National Science Fund for Excellent Young Scholars (NSFC).

The original National Key Laboratory of Biomacromolecules has pioneered and led the vigorous development of structural biology in China. With profound research foundations and academic accumulations, it has become a recognized hub for cutting-edge research on biomacromolecules domestically and internationally, playing a leading role in the advancement of life sciences in China. The reorganized laboratory will continue to uphold the fine traditions and scholarly ethos, promote the spirit of older generation scientists, persist in leading at the forefront of science and technology, actively explore and innovate, and clearly define its mission in terms of technological equipment, scientific issues, and clinical demands. Oriented towards global technological frontiers and national major needs, it aims to establish itself as an irreplaceable domestic and top-tier international research institution in life sciences.