Faculty

Howard Aizenstein, MD, PhD (Charles F. Reynolds III and Ellen G. Detlefsen Endowed Chair in Geriatric Psychiatry and Professor of Bioengineering and Clinical and Translational Science), is trained as a geriatric psychiatrist and as a computer scientist, and he is recognized for his expertise in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) analysis methods and their use in clinical research in aging. In collaboration with Tamer...

We are delighted to announce that two Department of Psychiatry faculty members have been honored by the American Psychosomatic Society (APS). Martica Hall, PhD (Professor of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Clinical and Translational Science), is the recipient of the APS Distinguished Scientist Award. The Society’s highest honor, the Distinguished Scientist Award recognizes senior scientists and physicians who have made...

The University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine has recognized Kristen Eckstrand, MD, PhD (Assistant Professor of Psychiatry), for her dedication to supporting student experience and for serving as an exemplary role model for tireless compassion and advocacy on behalf of patients. A former student provided a glowing account of their experience working with Dr. Eckstrand: "Dr. Kristen Eckstrand has been a pivotal...

We are delighted to announce that Brant Hasler, PhD, has been appointed Tenured Associate Professor of Psychiatry by the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Hasler’s research focuses on the role of sleep and circadian rhythms in regulating affect and motivation, particularly as they pertain to affective disorders and substance abuse in adolescents. He uses a combination of experimental and observational methods—including...

We are delighted to announce that Rebecca Price, PhD, has been appointed Tenured Associate Professor of Psychiatry by the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Price’s research investigates how the mind processes information in anxiety, depression, and suicidality. Her work bridges cognitive, affective, developmental, and clinical approaches to psychology and neuroscience, using techniques such as functional magnetic...

Beatriz Luna, PhD (Staunton Professor of Pediatrics and Psychiatry and Professor of Psychology), has been selected as a recipient of the 2022 Provost’s Award for Excellence in Doctoral Mentoring. This award annually recognizes outstanding mentors who have had the greatest impact on students seeking research doctorate degrees. Dr. Luna is an internationally recognized developmental neuroscientist. She is a world...