Lydia Rader

  • (she/her)
  • Predoctoral Trainee
  • INSTITUTE FOR BEHAVIORAL GENETICS

Research Interests:

My research mainly focuses on the phenotypic and genetic overlap of chronic pain, substance use, and mental health, with the ultimate goal of informing prevention and intervention strategies. I investigate questions such as:

  • How do adolescent pain and mental health trajectories influence later substance misuse?
  • Can engagement in activities like music and sports help prevent substance experimentation?
  • What role do genetics versus the environment play in shaping these complex relationships? 

Mentors:

Dan Gustavson, Naomi Friedman, Hermine Maes (external)

Active Grants:

  • NIDA DA046064-04 (Friedman) 04/15/2018 - 01/31/2023. Brain and Genetic Predictors of Individual Differences in Pain and Placebo Analgesia. Role: Research Assistant

Additional Resources:

CV

Personal Interests:

Additionally, I am passionate about science communication and bridging the gap between research discoveries, policy, and public benefit.