Profile

The Institute of Experimental Morphology, Pathology and Anthropology with Museum (IEMPAM) was founded on July 1st 2010 as a successor of the Institute of Experimental Morphology and Anthropology with Museum and the Institute of Experimental Pathology and Parasitology (IEPP).

IEMPAM has 98 employees, 40 of which are scientists and researchers (7 full and 17 associated professors professors; 13 assistant professors;), 6 PhD students and 15 researchers.

IEMPAM conducts fundamental and applied research in the field of human and veterinary medicine, focused on morphology, cell biology, pathology and anthropology encompassing important health and demographic issues. In the field of experimental morphology and pathology the studies include pathological and clinical aspects of infectious, non-infectious and parasitic diseases. The regulatory mechanisms of cell differentiation are explored aimed at elucidation the pathogenesis of socially significant diseases. Novel diagnostic methods are developed and biomarkers are identified for degenerative, cancer and autoimmune diseases, infections and infertility. Experimental model systems are designed to study the impact of environment and lifestyle on human health. A complex approach (in vitro, in vivo and in ovo) is developed to study biological activity and safety of chemicals and bioproducts. The Institute provides expertise for biotechnological industry and for diagnosis of emerging animal diseases with severe economic impacts. The research topics are in line with the national and European priorities "Health", "Food Safety" and "Environment".

Studies in the field of anthropology are focused on anthropological and anthropogenetical characterization of the Bulgarian population that elucidates the development of anthropological types in Bulgarian lands. Further studies include the processes of acceleration and deceleration; elaboration of physical development standards; identification of anthropometric markers for diagnosis of different diseases - all with priority for human health.

The National Anthropological Museum (NAM) is a unique scientific, educational and cultural institution, specialized in elaboration of original anthropological reconstructions and exhibits. The NAM is very active in popularization of contemporary anthropological knowledge in order to preserve the national identity, cultural and historical heritage.