Dr. Moghaddam’s research focuses on the use of animal models to study the cellular basis of cognitive constructs that are critical to brain and behavior disorders. Her lab uses a systems approach to study the neuronal mechanisms that maintain cognitive and emotional functions in key brain regions that have been implicated in symptoms of schizophrenia, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety and addictive disorders. She has a longstanding track record of involvement in successful translational research. Her work led to the discovery of the first non-monoamine targeting compound (targeting metabotropic glutamate receptors) for the treatment of schizophrenia.

Dr. Moghaddam received a Ph.D. in biochemistry from the University of Kansas and postdoctoral training in pharmacology at Yale University. She joined the faculty of the Department of Psychiatry at Yale University in 1990 where she quickly rose to the rank of full professor. In 2003 she moved to the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Moghaddam has been an active educator and mentor throughout her scientific career.