A verbal agreement between Drs. Robert C. Berson and Joseph F. Volker established the Laboratory of Experimental Endocrinology in 1961. The following year, Dr. S. Richardson Hill promoted Dr. Charles D. Kochakian to professor of biochemistry and director of the Laboratory. As director, Kachakian had all the academic prerogatives of a regular department chair. The Laboratory functioned like a joint basic sciences department, and Kochakian reported to the medical and dental deans. The primary mission of the Laboratory was to provide research and training in basic endocrinology. The history of the program is inextricably linked to Kochakian, who served as the only director. When he retired in 1979, the Laboratory ceased operations.
From the description of Director's Committee Files 1961-1972. (Mervyn H. Sterne Library - UAB). WorldCat record id: 31453646
