The Center was created to play a lead role in the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics (NSM) at California State University, Sacramento (CSUS) in both research and education in the burgeoning fields of Cell and Molecular Biology and Biochemistry.

Rapid scientific advances and an equally rapid expansion of the biotechnology industry have increased our need for a source of information and training in these important fields. Just a few of the many outgrowths of this information explosion include the use of embryonic and adult stem cells, therapeutic vs. reproductive cloning, genetics and evolutionary theory, genetically modified organisms (GMO), and nutrient-gene interactions. The Center provides a geographic and intellectual center for interdisciplinary basic and applied research, for the training of undergraduate and graduate students, and for community-based educational programs.