Promising Psychiatry Research Recognized in Grant Awards

The Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences has developed a core of faculty conducting basic and clinical neuroscience research, including investigations of the cellular, molecular, and genetic roots of psychiatric conditions. In 2001, seven junior faculty members in the department received grants from the National Alliance for Research on Schizophrenia and Depression (NARSAD). UW ranked fourth among institutions in the total number of grants awarded, behind Harvard, Yale, and Columbia.

The seven UW grant recipients were Dr. Benjamin Cheyette, acting assistant professor; Dr. Ruth Kohen, lecturer; Dr. Jagoda Pasic, acting assistant professor; Dr. Molly Shores, assistant professor; Dr. Patricia Szot, research assistant professor; Dr. Debby Tsuang, assistant professor; and Dr. Amanda Ernst Wood, clinical instructor.

In addition to running a large clinical program, the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences conducts extensive clinical outcome research and a growing body of basic research in neuroscience and pharmacology. These studies encompass molecular genetics, brain neuronal development, and neurotransmitter pharmacology. These basic science studies all relate to major psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia, depression, bipolar illness, and dementia. Research funding in financial year 2001 was more than $13 million.