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 June, we celebrated June Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month by highlighting a new study led by Dr. Sharon Sanz Simon studying risk and resilience factors that influence brain aging in Brazilian immigrant population. We’re excited to welcome two BHI core member, Dr. Jack Tsao and Dr. Suchismita Ray. We are thrilled to announce the promotion of our core faculty Dr. Mi-Hyeon Jang. Stay up to date with our latest faculty achievements, upcoming events, activities, opportunities, and more!
We celebrated June Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month by highlighting a groundbreaking study led by Dr. Sharon Sanz Simon, an assistant professor of psychiatry at NJMS and a core member of the Krieger Klein Alzheimer’s Research Center and BHI. Dr. Sanz Simon’s lab, the EngAGING Lab, launched the Brazilian Aging in New York–New Jersey (BRAINY-NJ) Study, one of the first U.S.-based research efforts focused on aging and dementia in the Brazilian immigrant population.
We are pleased to announce the Rutgers Brain Health Institute Fall 2025 trainee travel award for Rutgers PhD, MD/PhD students and Post-docs from labs engaged in neuroscience and mental health research. BHI will provide $500 awards to help offset the cost of attending a national or international conference related to neuroscience or mental health research during the current calendar year (i.e., by December 31, 2025). Submit all materials by August 15, 2025.
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.
