Our program is one of the few that trains scientists in treatment and services research. Scholars work with a preceptor to design and implement studies on treatment of substance use disorders (SUD), including nicotine, cannabis, opioids, and other substances. Scholars also select a specific area of focus for independent research. Current research interests of faculty include trials of efficacy and effectiveness of psychosocial and pharmacologic treatment of substance use disorders, including:

• Substance use disorders including cannabis, tobacco and opioids
• Innovative methodology, including internet-based studies
• Treatment of complex patients in health care settings
• Diagnostic techniques and research on treatment tailored for HIV-positive substance users with psychiatric and medical disorders
• Research on provision of services to substance-using populations
• Instrument development in substance use treatment

A variety of university-affiliated and community substance use treatment programs are available as research sites. These include inpatient- and outpatient-setting programs that treat a range of problems related to SUD treatment, including dependence on stimulants, cannabis, nicotine, alcohol, and opiates. Our program encourages close research involvement with a preceptor, and involvement in selected classes, seminars, and grant preparation.

The training program is supported in part by the Western States Node of the NIDA Clinical Trials Network. Resources from other significant extramural funding and R01-level grants are also routinely available to scholars.