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

Featured Funding Opportunity Announcements

• Scalable and Systematic Neurobiology of Psychiatric and Neurodevelopmental Disorder Risk Genes: Data Resource and Administrative Coordination Center (U24 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

Genomics News and Events

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