Dr. Eric Nestler, chairman of psychiatry, has received the 2004 Linda and Jack Gill Center for Biomolecular Science Award from Indiana University. The award recognizes "scientists who have emerged as national leaders in cellular, membrane or molecular neuroscience."
Dr. Nestler, holder of the Lou and Ellen McGinley Distinguished Chair in Psychiatric Research, was honored for his molecular research into addiction and the changes in specific neurons of the central nervous system that result after long-term exposure to drugs of abuse. Dr. Nestler's research focuses on identifying the molecular and cellular adaptations involved, and in relating them to specific behavioral features of addiction.