Research interests include the genetic dissection of neural development, molecular aspects of synapse formation and plasticity, structure and regulation of ion channels and transporters, receptor localization, targeting and signal transduction, psychotropic drug action, and the molecular basis of neuropsychiatry and neurodegenerative disorders. An additional research interest is targeted gene disruption in transgenic animals to ascertain the function of neural genes and establish disease models.
All faculty have an established track record of peer-reviewed funding for neuroscience research.
The Center also serves as a mechanism for thematic recruitment of faculty, augmenting traditional routes offered through academic departments. Center administrative staff coordinate the NIMH-funded Training Program in Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience, organize information resources pertinent to faculty and student career development as well as funding of neuroscience research, and provide a gateway for outreach activities to the Nashville community. In addition, Center faculty and staff supervise or participate in core resources vital to sequencing, advanced microscopy, and transgenic animal production.