As a neuroscientist, Dr. Kalivas has focused on the cellular mechanisms and brain circuitry mediating brain and behavior disorders, particularly in research to elucidate the brain molecules and neurocircuitry that underlie addiction, including addiction to alcohol and to cocaine. He moved from Washington State University to take on the position of Chair of Neuroscience at the Medical University of South Carolina in 1998 where he and his colleagues continue to investigate the cellular and molecular underpinnings of the brain circuits mediating addiction and also schizophrenia.

Dr. Kalivas holds the title of Distinguished University Professor at both the Medical University of South Carolina and Washington State University, and is an Honorary Professor of Neuroscience at Nanjing Medical University. In the public arena, he chairs the Scientific Advisory Board for medications development for the National Institute of Drug Abuse.