George Koob

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Koob (NIAAA)

George F. Koob is an American neuroscientist and neuropsychopharmacologist known for his research on the neurobiology of addiction. He is the Director of the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), a position he has held since 2014.

Early Life and Education

George Koob was born in New York City. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Pennsylvania State University and his Ph.D. in Behavioral Physiology from Johns Hopkins University.

Career

Koob began his career as a researcher at the Scripps Research Institute in La Jolla, California, where he became a professor and co-director of the Pearson Center for Alcoholism and Addiction Research. His work has significantly contributed to the understanding of the neurocircuitry involved in drug addiction and alcoholism.

In 2014, Koob was appointed as the Director of the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). In this role, he oversees a broad portfolio of research aimed at improving the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of alcohol use disorder and its associated health conditions.

Research Contributions

Koob's research has focused on the neurobiological mechanisms underlying addiction. He has identified key neurotransmitter systems and brain regions involved in the development and maintenance of substance use disorders. His work has highlighted the role of the extended amygdala in the negative emotional states associated with withdrawal and relapse.

Koob has published extensively in the fields of neuroscience, psychopharmacology, and addiction medicine. He has received numerous awards for his contributions to science, including the Distinguished Scientist Award from the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology.

Personal Life

George Koob is married and has two children. He is an avid runner and enjoys spending his free time with his family.

Selected Publications

• Koob, G. F., & Le Moal, M. (2006). Neurobiology of Addiction. Elsevier.
• Koob, G. F. (2013). Theoretical Frameworks for Neurobiological Studies of Addictions. Elsevier.

See Also

• National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism
• Neuropsychopharmacology
• Addiction
• Neurotransmitter
• Extended amygdala