About me

Dr. Kennedy's research is dedicated to finding genes involved in the cause of mental illness. He has published pioneering findings relating gene variants in the dopamine, serotonin, and neurodevelopment systems to psychiatric disorders and to treatment response. Dr. Kennedy has also led investigations using powerful DNA sequencing technology to understand genetic variation and function in great detail. Currently, he is applying molecular genetic technology to the study of schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, addictions, personality disorders and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. In addition, Dr. Kennedy is investigating genetic factors that may predict response and side-effects to psychiatric medications (pharmacogenetics). Another important area of interest is the integration of molecular genetics and neuroimaging (MRI, PET) as a combination approach to better understand brain structure and function.