Launched in May 2023 with funding from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), the Rutgers Training in Addiction Research Program (TARP) is dedicated to cultivating the next generation of addiction neuroscience researchers. TARP provides rigorous and comprehensive training to 3 graduate and 3 postdoctoral trainees annually, unifying substance use disorder research at Rutgers’ Piscataway/New Brunswick campuses by leveraging the university’s strengths in both basic science and human imaging research.
Mission:
The overarching goal of TARP is to recruit a diverse group of outstanding researchers and provide them with interdisciplinary training that spans addiction neuroscience from cellular processes to behavioral studies. Trainees gain exposure to a broad range of expertise through faculty mentors, representing areas such as epigenetics and human imaging, and supported by over $10 million in active research funding.
Program Highlights:
- Expert Mentorship: Led by Dr. Chris Pierce, a seasoned director of addiction research training programs, alongside renowned mentors like Drs. Gary Aston-Jones, Danielle Dick, Zhiping Pang, and David Zald, among others.
- Collaborative Learning: Hybrid monthly meetings open to all trainees and faculty to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing.
- Interdisciplinary Training: Focused on cutting-edge neuroscience research, ethical research conduct, grant writing, and professional development.
- Networking & Career Development: Opportunities to engage with the Rutgers addiction research community and develop skills for leadership roles in academia, industry, and government.
Why TARP Matters:
Substance use disorders present urgent public health challenges. TARP aims to equip researchers with innovative approaches to develop new treatments, addressing these challenges with a holistic understanding of addiction science and its application to real-world solutions.