Team ARIA believes that genetic epidemiology is an integral tool for understanding more about complex disorders that impact local and global public health. Our group seeks to advance understanding about how genetic factors are associated with complex human disorders within the context of populations and environments. Our team is seated within the Department of Epidemiology within the VCU School of Public Health, however we often work alongside with scientists from the Virginia Institute of Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics within the VCU School of Medicine.
Our research group is primarily focused on liability and resistance for psychiatric and substance use disorders, as well as comorbidities in these disorders. We use a broad range of methodologies in twin/family modeling, quantitative genetics, and gene-environment modeling to investigate these issues. Our group also places emphasis on utilizing epidemiological study design to increase the validity and generalizability of our findings. We believe that these findings can be utilized to improve treatment development, assist clinicians in decision making, and inform public health initiatives for psychiatric and substance use disorders.
Team ARIA recognizes the importance of conducting and communicating ethical and rigorous research, especially in genetic epidemiology. Despite the best intentions, research can be misunderstood and results can be manipulated or sensationalized to tell an unintended story with damaging consequences. Team ARIA puts great emphasis on conducting research that is generalizable and beneficial to all US citizens, while conducting responsible and precise communication of these findings.