Courtney Lab

The Courtney Lab has an active research program in the clinical neuroscience of substance addiction. Our research focuses on understanding the neurobiological mechanisms that drive the development and maintenance of addiction by studying characteristics such as craving and impulsivity. Through this work, we hope to develop new ways to intervene and treat substance addiction. In our studies, we use a number of laboratory methods including neuroimaging (e.g., fMRI, EEG, fNIRS), cognitive, and behavioral assessments.

Projects

Varenicline VR Study (CURRENTLY RUNNING)

The Varen VR Study is being conducted to explore biological markers of nicotine craving during a virtual reality (VR) experience in adults (22+) who smoke cigarettes daily. Learn more about this study.

NicAdmin Study (CURRENTLY RUNNING)

The NicAdmin Study is being conducted to better understand how the brain responds to nicotine in young adults. Learn more about this study.

Past Study: Alcohol VR Study

The Alcohol VR Study used virtual reality to measure craving in adults (21+) who regularly consume alcohol. Learn more about this study.

Past Study: NTP VR STUDY (Nicotine)

The NTP VR Study used virtual reality to measure nicotine craving in adult (18+) users of nicotine products (NTPs) such as cigarettes, e-cigarettes, vapes, etc. Learn more about this study.

Take a personalized Nicotine Quiz.

IN THE NEWS...

Nicotine use in youth linked to altered brain blood flow, study findsIn a recent study, researchers discovered that frequent use of nicotine products by young adults and adolescents is associated with changes in brain blood flow, particularly in areas critical to addiction and cognitive function. The findings have been published in Brain Imaging and Behavior.

Press release “Nicotine use in youth linked to altered brain blood flow, study finds” featured in PsyPost.

11/2023

MRI Technique Used to Identify Future Risk of Binge DrinkingBrain scans reveal link between strength of inhibition control and early binge drinking behavior.

Press Release "MRI Technique Used Identify Future Risks of Binge Drinking "

05/2020

A Medication To Treat Meth Addiction? Some Take A New Look At NaltrexoneMethamphetamine addiction is growing fast, but there's no approved medication to treat it. Now, some clinicians and researchers are experimenting with a drug used for opioid and alcohol addiction.

Press release "A Medication To Treat Meth Addiction? Some Take A New Look At Naltrexone" featured in KPBS

11/2019

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