The Endometriosis Foundation of America (EndoFound) and Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL) have announced the launch of the Seckin Endometriosis Research Center for Women’s Health, a new initiative dedicated to advancing research in endometriosis, one of the most overlooked areas in women’s health.
The center is funded through a combined $20 million commitment, with $10 million from EndoFound and a $10 million matching gift from CSHL Board Chair Marilyn Simons, PhD. According to the announcement, this represents a historic investment in endometriosis research, which has traditionally been underfunded despite the disease’s prevalence.
Named after internationally renowned endometriosis surgeon Tamer Seckin, MD, the center will be housed at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory under the leadership of Dr. Semir Beyaz, Assistant Professor and lead investigator. Dr. Beyaz’s research explores the intersection of genetics, metabolism, and the immune system in female reproductive health.
Dr. Seckin is known for developing a patented blue dye technique that helps surgeons detect otherwise hidden endometriosis lesions, improving both diagnosis and surgical outcomes. The center bearing his name will apply advanced technologies and interdisciplinary collaboration to investigate the disease’s underlying biology, progression, and potential therapeutic strategies.
Endometriosis affects approximately one in ten women of reproductive age and is a leading cause of infertility, chronic pelvic pain, and reduced quality of life. It occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, most commonly in the pelvic cavity, though it can appear elsewhere in the body.
The Seckin Endometriosis Research Center will serve as a hub for scientific collaboration, data generation, and innovation, with the mission of deepening understanding of the disease and driving the development of better diagnostics and treatments.
EndoFound is the leading endometriosis organization in the United States, co-founded by Dr. Seckin and advocate Padma Lakshmi. As the largest non-profit dedicated to this disease, the organization works to increase recognition of endometriosis, advance advocacy, support expert surgical training, and fund research.
