Dr.  Dr. Damaj earned his Ph.D. in Pharmacology in 1991 from the University of Paris XI, France and completed his post-doctoral training with Dr. Billy R. Martin at VCU.  The major emphasis of Dr. Damaj’s research is directed toward understanding the role of neuronal nicotinic in CNS function and behavior (mainly drug abuse and pain) using newly developed nicotinic ligands and various mouse genetic approaches. Finally, Dr. Damaj’s lab has a particular interest in probing the role of the neuronal nicotinic receptors play in the transmission of acute and chronic neuropathic pain. Currently, his work focuses also on the impact of nicotine exposure in adolescence on drug dependence. He has authored or co-authored over 185 peer-review publications and served as Principal Investigator on numerous NIH grants. He is a member of the The Biobehavioral Regulation, Learning and Ethology NIH Study Section.

Affiliation

Virginia Commonwealth University

2017 CPDA Conference

“Enhancement of Nicotine Antiallodynic Effects and Reversal of Nicotine Withdrawal by Positive Allosteric Modulation of α4β2 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors in Mice”

2016 CPDA Conference

“Effect of Kappa-selective Antagonists on Nicotine Dependence in Mice”