The Neuroscience, Behavior and Health (NBH) Initiative focuses on understanding the development and fundamental basis of human behaviors that are linked to health and disease: a research challenge that spans fields from molecular biology and genetics to behavior, rehabilitation and education.  Research in NBH is directed towards studying preventable diseases and disabilities, informing policies, and strategic investments that create healthier communities and decrease costs of treatment and mitigation.  The NBH Initiative was inspired in part by an NIH facilitated discussion about “The Science of Behavior Change”.  For more information visit http://commonfund.nih.gov/behaviorchange/meetings/sobc061509/

NBH Awards Three Microgrants

The NBH Steering Committee recently awarded three microgrants that bridge existing projects and develop new transdisciplinary collaborations in NBH related areas.  The three microgrants were awarded to the following projects:

• “A neuroimaging study on the cognitive and anxiolytic benefits of exercise.”
  Hugh Garavan, PhD, Psychiatry (COM); Jeremy Sibold, PhD, Rehabilitation and Movement Sciences (CNHS); Bill Falls, PhD, Psychology (CAS);  Jom Hammack, PhD, Psychology (CAS)

• “fNIR-­‐based Brain-­‐Computer Interface to Control Computerized Communication Output.”
  Michael S. Cannizzaro, PhD, Communication Sciences and Disorders (CNHS); Michael J. Rosen, PhD, Engineering (CEMS); Robert R. Snapp, PhD, Computer Science (CEMS)
  

• “Driver’s-Eye-View Simulator for Assessing and Training Power Wheelchair Control”
  Michael J. Rosen, PhD, Engineering (CEMS) and Peter M. Bingham, MD, Neurol Sciences (COM)

Additionaly funding may be available through the COBRE in Neuroscience.  The COBRE in Neuroscience Pilot Grants (deadline Feb 22), are for junior and mid-level investigators and must be related to stroke and neurovascular interactions or neural regulation of autonomic nervous system (development, function, or disorders).