About Hektoen Institute for Medical Research
Founded in 1943 by a group of dedicated Cook County physicians, the Hektoen Institute for Medical Research serves as a vital hub for funding and conducting groundbreaking medical research and education. Over the decades, Hektoen has made significant contributions to various medical fields, including liver disease, gastroenterology, urology, cardiology, and renal diseases, resulting in the publication of over 2,700 scientific papers. The institute has also played a crucial role in advancing medical education through lectures, symposia, and fellowships.
In response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the 1990s, Hektoen shifted its focus to address the urgent needs of Chicago’s underserved populations, supporting research in HIV treatment and prevention. Today, Hektoen continues to promote research and administer funding for critical health programs, including domestic violence, women’s health, and public health initiatives that benefit the most vulnerable communities in Chicago.