George Kunos, M.D.,Ph.D. Scientific Director

More than 10 million Americans suffer from alcoholism, a disease that results in more than 100,000 deaths annually and is estimated to have an annual cost of $ 185 billion in the United States. The mission of our intramural research program is to identify the causes and consequences of alcoholism and excessive drinking, and to understand the underlying biological processes at the molecular, cellular and whole organism levels. We address these questions by using a broad range of research approaches, including clinical investigations using state-of-the-art brain imaging techniques, studies of alcohol-drinking behavior in primate models, analyses of drug and alcohol action at the cellular and molecular levels, and genetic studies aimed to identify genes that increase or decrease our vulnerability to develop alcoholism. In doing this work we interact extensively and closely with scientists in other institutes that make up the intramural research program of the National Institutes of Health. This broad-based interactive approach offers an outstanding training environment for young scientists interested in gaining expertise in a variety of biological disciplines. We would be more than happy to answer any further questions you may have about our research program and training opportunities.

Updated: August 2002