Scientists are among the most interesting people you’ll ever meet, and they do some of the most exciting and creative work imaginable. But for most of us, that work can often seem abstract and hard to grasp.
Back by popular demand, Joe Palca, NPR science correspondent, once again comes to the rescue. He’s gathered a group of scientists to join him for a series that offers insights into what they do—and why it’s important to you. Informal conversations will reveal dynamic fields filled with innovation, passion, and promise that are worlds away from coolly clinical, lab-coated stereotypes. You’ll come away from these entertaining and accessible sessions with plenty of new information, as well as a deeper confidence in your ability to make the connection between science and your life. Last year’s series sold out, so be sure to reserve your spot soon.
Featured Topic: The Science of Addiction
Featured Scientist: Nora Volkow, director, National Institute on Drug Abuse
This evening, Palca's guest is Nora D. Volkow, director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) at the National Institutes of Health, which supports most of the world’s research on the health aspects of drug abuse and addiction. Her work has been instrumental in demonstrating that drug addiction is a disease of the human brain.
Volkow pioneered the use of brain imaging to investigate the toxic effects and addictive properties of abusable drugs. Her studies have documented changes in the dopamine system affecting, among others, the functions of frontal brain regions involved with motivation, drive, and pleasure in addiction. She has also made important contributions to the neurobiology of obesity, ADHD, and aging.
Click here to view the full lecture series.
