Since its inception in 1898, the primary mission of the Joslin Diabetes Center has been to care for people with diabetes, and conduct research to provide new knowledge about diabetes and its complications that will lead to new treatments, prevention and/or cure of these disorders. 

This mission is interpreted in its broadest context because diabetes is a heterogeneous and complex disorder, there is a close relationship between diabetes and other metabolic disorders including obesity and atherosclerosis, and progress in understanding cellular processes and disease pathogenesis should ultimately lead to major advances for diabetes. 

Research within Joslin involves a wide variety of biologic disciplines ranging from the most basic model systems to studies of pathophysiology in animal models and humans to the evaluation of new therapies in patients. 

The Diabetes Research Center (DRC) has been funded by the NIH/NIDDK since th late 1980's and it's presently in its 26th year of funding.  The primary aim of the Joslin DRC is to provide a facilitating framework for conducting multi-disciplinary basic and clinical research and to encourage the scientific development of young investigators.  Special attention is paid to fostering rapid translation of basic research to the next level.

This is accomplished by the three major programs of the Joslin DRC:

1. Core Laboratories which provide services, reagents, specialized technical expertise and education directed at enhancing the productivity of research programs. 

2. Pilot and Feasibility projects that support the development of new investigators and allow established investigators to explore new areas, and strengthen bridges to surrounding institutions.

3. The Enrichment Program which provide a series of seminars, workshops and visiting professors to provide continuing education, stimulation, and foster collaborations with external research programs.