Posted May 31, 2011
Cure Alzheimer’s Fund Research Consortium Member recognized
for Work on Neuroscience and Neuropsychiatric Disorders
Boston— Praised for excellence in his innovative neuroscience research, Stanford University’s Dr. Robert Malenka, M.D., Ph.D. has been elected to the National Academy of Sciences. A member of Cure Alzheimer’s Fund Research Consortium, Malenka is the Nancy Friend Pritzker Professor in Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, and director of the Nancy Friend Pritzker Laboratory at Stanford University.
Malenka is a world leader in elucidating the molecular mechanisms by which neural circuits are reorganized by experience. His many contributions over the last 25 years have laid the groundwork for a much more sophisticated understanding of the mechanisms by which neurons communicate and the adaptations in synaptic communication which underlie all forms of normal and pathological behavior. He has been at the forefront of helping to apply the knowledge gained from basic neuroscience research to the treatment and prevention of major neuropsychiatric disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease.
“We congratulate Dr. Malenka on this prestigious honor. It is well deserved,” said Cure Alzheimer’s Fund co-founder Jeffery L. Morby, a Stanford University graduate. “His groundbreaking research on neuroscience has been critical in better understanding how Alzheimer’s impacts the brain, and has moved us closer to finding better treatments and a potential cure for this devastating disease.”
Malenka will be inducted into the National Academy of Sciences next April. The Academy is a private, nonprofit society engaged in scientific and engineering research, dedicated to the furthering science and technology and to their use for the general welfare. Established in 1863, the academy has served to “investigate, examine, experiment and report upon any subject of science or art” whenever called upon to do so by the government. The Academy has more than 2,000 active members.
About Cure Alzheimer’s Fund
Cure Alzheimer’s Fund is a 501c3 public charity whose mission is to fund research with the highest probability of slowing, stopping or reversing Alzheimer’s disease. Cure Alzheimer’s Fund is characterized by a venture approach to philanthropy, which targets funding to specific research objectives. All expenses and overhead is paid for by its founders and all contributions go directly to research. The foundation has no financial of intellectual property interest in the research funded, and will make known the results of all funded research as soon as possible. Cure Alzheimer’s Fund is a national organization with offices in Boston and Pittsburgh. For more information, visit www.curealzfund.org.