The laboratory’s focus is on the neurons that use glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter that is key to the functioning of the central nervous system.

The laboratory directed by Bruno Giros, PhD, studies the molecular networks of dopamine and glutamate receptors and transporters, two neurotransmitters that play a key role in schizophrenia.

Directed by Cécilia Flores, PhD, the laboratory investigates brain abnormalities at the cellular and molecular level contributing to behaviours associated with schizophrenia and addiction.

The laboratory of Patricia Boksa, PhD, has shown that birth complications can change the way in which the brain’s dopamine systems respond to stress in adulthood.

Directed by Natalie Grizenko, MD, and Ridha Joober, MD, PhD, the laboratory studies the genetic and pharmacogenetic aspects of psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, ADHD and eating disorders.

Directed by Thomas Brown, PhD, and Christine Gianoulakis, PhD, the laboratory is researching the genetic etiology and underlying mechanisms of addiction as well as the markers of predisposition to addiction.

Directed by N.M.K. Ng Ying Kin, PhD, the laboratory measures putative biological markers for various psychiatric conditions and treatment-resistance to usual medications.

Directed by J. Bruno Debruille, MD, PhD, the laboratory attempts to discover the neurocognitive mechanisms of psychotic symptoms of schizophrenia, such as delusions, hallucinations, and alienation.

In 1982, after consultation with the Canadian government, the Director-General of WHO designates the Douglas Mental Health University Institute as the first Collaborating Centre for research and training in mental health in Canada.

The Charles Cahn Library houses over 15,000 books and journals in the fields of psychiatry and mental health services.