BHI is at the forefront of innovative brain research, addressing critical areas such as neurodevelopment, neurodegeneration, and mental health.
Brain Health Institute
With 300+ laboratories, 33 departments, and 14 schools, Rutgers Brain Health Institute has one of the highest concentrations of neuroscience labs in the world.
Pioneering Neuroscience Through Research and Real-World Solutions
Discover how the Rutgers Brain Health Institute leads the way in neuroscience research, collaboration, and education. Explore our groundbreaking work, from advancing scientific knowledge to shaping future leaders and driving global health impact. Each of our focus areas plays a vital role in transforming patient care and pushing the boundaries of brain science.
Our centers bring together leading scientists, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration in addiction research, autism, and more.
BHI nurtures the next generation of neuroscientists through robust funding, mentorship, and training opportunities.
Our discoveries influence global health initiatives while transforming patient care within the New Jersey community.
Who We Are: Pioneers in Neuroscience and Patient Care
At Rutgers Brain Health Institute, we lead cutting-edge research to uncover the mysteries of the brain and improve lives. Our scientists collaborate across disciplines to find solutions for complex neurological and mental health challenges, while our clinical partnerships ensure that our discoveries make a real-world impact on patient care. Join us in pushing the boundaries of neuroscience.
An Evening with Friends of Rutgers Brain Health Institute
On May 21, 2025, we hosted An Evening with Friends of Rutgers Brain Health Institute (FoRBHI) at the Zimmerli Art Museum. The event featured a presentation by BHI Director, Dr. Gary Aston-Jones, opportunities to connect with BHI’s five Center Directors and faculty, and time to explore the museum’s galleries. Guests also enjoyed a stunning performance by rising Metropolitan Opera soprano and Rutgers alumna Amanda Batista, accompanied by pianist Ye In Kwak—both members of the Met’s Lindemann Young Artist Development Program. Over sixty Rutgers alumni, donors, and friends of the university met our leading scientists and learn about their groundbreaking research on everything ranging from autism to Alzheimer’s disease, discovering new ways to support and advance neuroscience and brain health research at Rutgers.
Research Highlights and News
Stay updated on the latest discoveries and initiatives from BHI. Explore breakthroughs, upcoming events, and key insights from our experts as we continue to advance brain health research.
In May, we hosted An Evening with Friends of BHI, featuring a presentation by BHI Director Dr. Gary Aston-Jones, a performance by a Met Opera soprano, and opportunities to connect with BHI’s five Center Directors and faculty. We’re excited to highlight a video of the Neurodevelopment FAWG’s new Chair, Dr. Maria Chiara Manzini. We celebrate the promotions of our BHI faculty members – congratulations to Drs. Nina Cooperman, Victoria Abraira, Brian Daniels, Alison Bemstein, and Huijuan Hu. We are thrilled to announce that Dr. Wayne Fisher, Director of RUCARES, has been honored with the 2025 Brian A. Iwata Award for Outstanding Career Contributions to Applied Behavior Analysis by the Society for the Experimental Analysis of Behavior. Stay up to date with our latest faculty achievements, upcoming events, activities, opportunities, and more!
The Neurodevelopment Focus Area Working Group (ND-FAWG) at the BHI brings together faculty and trainees across Rutgers to advance research on how the brain develops—from basic science on early development to clinical studies. The ND FAWG focuses on a wide range of neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism, intellectual disabilities, schizophrenia, Rett syndrome, and brain malformations. The FAWG fosters collaboration among scientists and clinicians to drive innovative, multidisciplinary research and share new ideas. Following the resignation of the inaugural Chair, Dr. Wayne Fisher, Dr. Maria Chiara Manzini and Dr. Jennifer Gladys Mulle now serve as Chair and Vice-Chair of the group, respectively. To shape the group’s future direction, the FAWG will soon distribute a survey and host a town hall to hear your ideas on how best to connect and support neurodevelopmental researchers across the university.
The second annual conference of the New Jersey Autism Center of Excellence (NJACE) and the Rutgers Center for Autism Research, Education, and Services (RUCARES) at the BHI is nearing! Similar to last year’s conference, we will be holding a poster session. If you’re interested in displaying a poster, please complete the application to be considered. Submissions are due by August 1, 2025. We look forward to your submissions!
Join Us in Advancing Brain Health
Become part of our mission to revolutionize neuroscience. Whether you’re a researcher, clinician, or supporter, your involvement can help shape the future of brain health. Explore opportunities to collaborate, donate, or engage with our cutting-edge initiatives today.
