Research Interest Group Program

The O'Donnell Brain Institute Research Interest Group Program encourages multidisciplinary groups of UT Southwestern researchers focused on a shared research area to connect and build working relationships. OBI seeks to support research interest groups to propel collaboration across the breadth of laboratory and clinical brain science. 

Who is eligible? The lead applicant must be an approved OBI Investigator or member of an OBI-affiliated departments. Research group members can be from any UT Southwestern department.

What can the funds be used for? The awards will support researchers to organize and hold networking events, focused workshops, or to host an outside speaker. Funds can also be used for refreshments.

What type of groups can apply? The content and agenda of the research interest group should reflect the OBI mission for transdisciplinary research and involve faculty from at least two UT Southwestern departments (preferably more).

See full details on the program and how to apply.

(Applications are accepted year-round.)

2024 Research Interest Groups

Autism
Administrator: Susan Hayes
PI: Maria Chahrour, Ph.D.

Circadian Rhythm and Sleep
Administrator: Shelley Dixon
PI: Joseph Takahashi, Ph.D.

Clinical Research Coordinator/Research Nurse
Administrator: Chris Loehrlein
PI: Brigid Hayward

Dopamine
Administrator: Benjamin Fields
PI: Daisuke Hattori, Ph.D.

Gene Therapy
Administrator: Ben Eckert
PI: Ryan Butler, Ph.D.

Movement Disorders and Cerebellum
Administrator: Jackie Lemons
PI: Vikram Shakkottai, M.D., Ph.D.

Neurology and Psychiatry
Administrator: Alicia Gill
PI: Steven Vernino, M.D., Ph.D.

Neuron-glia Interaction
Administrator: Thomas Crone
PI: Lu Sun, Ph.D.

Somatosensory and Pain Interest Cluster of Excellence (SPICE)
Administrator: Ashlyn Strength
PI: Helen Lai, Ph.D.

Stroke and Brain Injury
Administrator: Marion Loup
PI: Yingfei Wang, Ph.D.

If you are a UT Southwestern researcher and would like to join an existing interest group, please contact the group administrator for more information.