Genomics Research
Genomics research funded by the National Institute of Mental Health aims to deepen our understanding of the genomic and non-genomic factors (such as environment) that contribute to the development of mental illnesses. The ultimate goal of this research is to improve current approaches to diagnose, treat, and prevent mental disorders.
In 2017, the National Advisory Mental Health Council Workgroup on Genomics established criteria for rigorous genomics research. The Genomics Team implements these recommendations across NIMH-funded projects and the genomics research priorities described in the NIMH Strategic Plan for Research.
The Genomics Team establishes genomics initiatives and programs through funding opportunity announcements. These opportunities span basic, clinical, and translational research and could help establish a framework for translating genetic findings into clinical applications (e.g., risk prediction, diagnostics, therapeutic, and prognostic).
The team also develops initiatives that have the potential to advance and transform our understanding of how disease risk genes cause changes in brain function and behavior. An example includes the Genes to Biology initiative . Through this initiative, researchers will systematically evaluate the neurobiology of psychiatric risk genes and establish a harmonized cross-modality and cross-species phenotypic data resource. In addition, the team seeks to advance gene-based therapeutics research for rare genetic neurodevelopmental disorders for which targeted, gene-based treatments are not currently available.
Recent Meetings and Events
Workshop: Advanced Statistical Methods and Dynamic Data Visualizations for Mental Health Studies
June 28, 2021 - June 30, 2021
Featured Funding Opportunity Announcements
Genomics News and Events
Science News
Find NIMH science news related to genomics research.
Meetings and Events
Discover NIMH workshops and scientific meetings related to genomics research.
Team Leads
Jonathan Pevsner, Ph.D.
Chief, Genomics Research Branch, Division of Neuroscience and Basic Behavioral Science
Email: jonathan.pevsner@nih.gov
Phone: 301-728-5618
Geetha Senthil, Ph.D.
Program Director, Genomics, Division of Translational Research
Email: geetha.senthil2@nih.gov
Phone: 301-402-0754