Pharmacology & Toxicology Research

Neuroscience, Drugs of Abuse, and Pain

Overview

• Many investigators in the Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology focus their research on drugs of abuse, pain, and broader aspects of neuroscience with the goal of advancing our understanding in these critical areas.
• Both faculty and trainees are recognized nationally and internationally for their contributions.

Training and Funding

• Robust predoctoral and postdoctoral training programs exist in these areas, including NIH-funded T32 training grants on Alcohol and Drugs of Abuse. The latter has been continuously funded for over 50 years!

Research Approaches

• Investigators use a variety of approaches and models, using molecular, genetic, behavioral, and integrated approaches to study the mechanisms of action and addiction liability of abused drugs and the biology of tolerance and dependence.
• These studies include research on cannabinoids, opioids, nicotine, ethanol, cocaine, inhalants, and other novel abused drugs.

Major Research Centers

• There are two significant research centers focused in these areas housed in the department: The Central Virginia Center on Drug Abuse Research promotes innovative basic and clinical research through four research cores and the VCU Alcohol Research Center: continuously funded for over 15 years by the NIAAA is focused on identifying gene networks and brain mechanisms involved in Alcohol Use Disorder.

Faculty Research Interests