Suzanne N. Haber, PhD, a neurobiologist at the University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, has been elected to the National Academy of Medicine (NAM). This election is considered one of the highest honors in health and medicine and recognizes Haber’s extensive contributions to neuroscience and psychiatry over four decades.
Haber serves as Dean’s professor in the Department of Pharmacology and Physiology at the University of Rochester. Her research focuses on mapping brain regions and circuits that regulate motivation, cognition, and motor control. Using anatomical studies and advanced imaging, she has identified circuit abnormalities linked to neurological and mental health disorders such as schizophrenia, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder, addiction, and depression.
She leads the Silvio O. Conte Center for Basic and Translational Mental Health Research at the University of Rochester, funded by the National Institutes of Health. Through this role, Haber collaborates with scientists nationwide to translate findings about brain circuit dysfunction into potential treatments. Currently, her work involves using circuitry models to guide deep brain stimulation and transcranial magnetic stimulation therapies for OCD, depression, and addiction.
“Suzanne’s research is highly translational,” said Steve Dewhurst, PhD, vice president for Research at the University of Rochester. “Her broad knowledge of brain networks, including the so-called ‘OCD network’, combined with the expertise of state-of-the-art imaging specialists and physicians attuned to patient needs, creates an ideal foundation for understanding how the OCD network regulates brain function in both health and disease. It also sets the stage for the development of innovative treatment strategies. This recognition is a testament to her remarkable insight and collaborative nature.”
Bob Dirksen, PhD, chair of Pharmacology & Physiology at the University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry highlighted Haber’s ability to build international research teams: “One of Suzanne’s greatest strengths is building international research teams to tackle complex problems and deliver solutions to patients.” He noted that under Haber’s leadership at the Conte Center—an initiative designed to unite scientists from diverse backgrounds—she has received three Conte grants during her career.
“We are truly fortunate to have such an exceptional researcher here at the University of Rochester,” said Dirksen.
Haber holds additional appointments as professor in Psychiatry, Brain & Cognitive Sciences, and Neuroscience. She has authored more than 200 scientific papers with collaborators from institutions including Harvard University, Massachusetts General Hospital, Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, University of Pittsburgh, Washington University in St. Louis, and others. In recent years she was recognized with awards such as the Barbara Fish Memorial Award from the American College of Neuropharmacology in 2023 and the Gold Medal Award from the Society of Biological Psychiatry in 2020.
“I was surprised, overwhelmed, and very honored to be elected,” said Haber. “It takes a team to make meaningful developments in research and patient care, and I wouldn’t be here without my Conte Center colleagues, the trainees who have worked in my lab over the years, and the extraordinary support of Bob Dirksen and the department of Pharmacology & Physiology.”
