The Rutgers Addiction Research Center (RARC) is committed to cultivating the next generation of addiction researchers by offering diverse training programs and resources. Whether you are beginning your academic journey or seeking to advance your expertise, RARC provides opportunities to contribute to innovative research, enhance your professional skills, and collaborate with a vibrant community of experts. With a focus on mentorship and support, RARC is here to help you achieve your goals in addiction research. For more information, contact us at rarc@bhi.rutgers.edu.
RARC Training Opportunities
There are a number of training programs that are run out of the RARC:
Training in Research Undergraduate Experience through the Rutgers Addiction Research Center (TRUE RARC Scholar Program)
The TRUE RARC Scholar Program offers undergraduates the chance to take two new courses, Data Science & Addiction Research I and II, and engage in paid research experiences within participating Rutgers faculty labs. The program also includes professional development opportunities for career and graduate school readiness.
Learn more about the TRUE RARC Scholar Program
Guided Research Experience and Applied Training (GREAT) Program in Alcohol Studies
A collaboration with Virginia Commonwealth University, the GREAT Program offers funded summer research training for undergraduates from underrepresented backgrounds. Participants engage in a one-week bootcamp, seven-week research internship, and professional development activities.
Learn more about the GREAT Program
Translational Research Training in Addictions for Racial/Ethnic Minorities (TRACC-RU)
The TRACC-RU program, launched in 2013, provides undergraduates and graduate students from underrepresented racial and ethnic minority groups with training in translational addiction research. The program focuses on integrating basic science findings into clinical and community practice and leveraging new technologies to enhance the reach and effectiveness of addiction treatments. Participants gain valuable research experience, fostering their professional development and readiness for careers or advanced studies in addiction research.
Learn more about TRACC-RU
Training in Addiction Research Program (TARP)
Led by Dr. Chris Pierce, this program funds graduate students and postdoctoral trainees in addiction neuroscience. Participants receive full funding, attend professional development events, and connect with external speakers through monthly presentations and an annual symposium.
Learn more about the T32 Program
Join the RARC
Trainees conducting addiction-related research in any home department are encouraged to affiliate with the RARC:
Graduate Training Programs
RARC researchers are housed across a number of Centers and Departments and are affiliated with several training programs. Graduate students can explore opportunities through these departments:
- School of Social Work: The School of Social Work offers both Master’s (MSW) and Doctoral (DSW; PhD) programs.
- Kinesiology
- School of Graduate Studies – Neuroscience
- Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology (GSAPP)
- Public Health
School of Public Health (SPH)
- Master of Public Health (MPH)
- Doctor of Public Health (DrPH)
- Focus Areas: Epidemiology, Behavioral Health
Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology (GSAPP)
- PsyD in Clinical Psychology
- PhD in School Psychology
Robert Wood Johnson Medical School (RWJMS)
- MD/PhD Programs
- Research Opportunities in Psychiatry
Graduate School-New Brunswick (GSNB)
- PhD in Neuroscience
- Master’s and PhD in Psychology