Being part of a clinical study at Pennington Biomedical felt like contributing to something so much larger than myself. The science here is real, and so is the care.
World-Leading Obesity Research
Solving the Global Obesity Epidemic Through Science
The Pennington Biomedical Research Foundation supports world-leading research to prevent and treat obesity and chronic diseases — with a bold mission to end the epidemic
Our Impact at a Glance
35+
Years of scientific research
100+
Researchers supported
650M
Adults worldwide affected
200+
Diseases linked to obesity
"Pennington Biomedical is a world-respected leader in obesity and chronic disease research. Our extraordinary team of scientists and staff work each day to advance scientific discovery and continue the Center's amazing legacy."
— Jennifer Rood, Interim Senior Vice Chancellor and Executive DirectorPennington Biomedical Research Lab · Baton Rouge, LA
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35+
Years of Research Excellence
100+
Researchers Supported
$50M+
Invested in Research
Global
Impact on Metabolic Health
Support the Mission
Invest in Healthier Lives Through Research
Your gift funds the unrestricted science that federal grants can’t touch — bold, high-risk research that leads to the breakthroughs that change everything.
Donate NowJoin the Mission
Participate in a Clinical Research Study
Pennington Biomedical continuously enrolls volunteers for nutrition, metabolism, and healthy living studies that advance science and can benefit your health.
Get InvolvedDiscover the Mission
Explore the Research Shaping Healthier Futures
From the lab to the community, our scientists advance the frontiers of human health science every single day.
Our ResearchThe Urgent Challenge
Obesity Is One of the World's Most Pressing Health Crises
Obesity is not a choice. Science confirms it is a chronic disease — linked to diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and early death.
It's a Disease
Officially recognized as a chronic disease by the American Medical Association in 2013.
It's an Epidemic
Over 40% of the U.S. population has obesity — the highest rate ever recorded.
It's Deadly
More than 300,000 Americans die of obesity-related causes each year.
It's Misunderstood
Obesity is shaped by genetics, environment, and biology — not willpower.
650M
Adults worldwide living with obesity
300K+
Deaths per year in the U.S.
40%
Of U.S. adults living with obesity
200+
Diseases linked to obesity
Our Community & Labs
Life at Pennington Biomedical
A glimpse into our research labs, events, and the people behind the science.
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Get Involved
Upcoming Events
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Men’s Health Summit
Annual summit promoting health awareness and services for men — free health screenings, workshops, demonstrations, and interactive exhibits…
Register Now
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Childhood Obesity Conference: Be The Reason Kids Greaux Healthy
Annual conference uniting healthcare providers, educators, and community leaders to prevent and treat childhood obesity across Louisiana —…
Register Now
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Behind the Lab Doors
Explore Dr. Jeffrey Keller's Safer Driver Program — how Pennington Biomedical research is improving driver health and roadway…
Register NowMake a Difference
Give to the Foundation
Every gift — of any size — funds the unrestricted science that federal grants can’t touch. Your support advances the research that fights obesity, diabetes, and chronic disease.
Donate Now →Join a Study
Participate in Research
Pennington Biomedical is continuously enrolling healthy volunteers and individuals with specific health conditions for clinical research studies at our Baton Rouge campus.
Learn How →Stay Informed
Research Breakthroughs, Delivered to You
Stay updated on scientific discoveries, upcoming events, and how your support is making a difference.