From the Michigan Chapter of the Society of Neuroscience:

"Welcome to the Michigan Chapter Society for Neuroscience (MiSfN) Annual Conference! We are thrilled to host this year’s gathering at Wayne State University, located in the heart of Detroit—a city rich in innovation, resilience, and scientific progress. This annual event brings together a vibrant community of neuroscientists, clinicians, students, and researchers from across the state to share groundbreaking discoveries, foster collaboration, and inspire the next generation of scientific leaders.

As we embark on a full day of thought-provoking presentations, dynamic poster sessions, and engaging networking opportunities, we celebrate the incredible breadth and depth of neuroscience research happening right here in Michigan. Whether you are presenting your work, seeking new ideas, or building connections within the neuroscience community, we are honored to have you here. Thank you for being part of this exciting journey as we continue to push the boundaries of brain science and discovery together.

[Keynote speaker] Dr. Christine Rabinak, Ph.D., M.B.A., serves as the Interim Associate Dean for Research and Associate Professor in the Department of Pharmacy Practice at Wayne State University's Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. She earned her Ph.D. and M.S. in Biological Psychology from the University of Michigan and a B.S. in Psychology from the University of Iowa. In 2024, she completed an M.B.A. in Management at Wayne State University. Dr. Rabinak leads the Translational Neuropsychopharmacology Laboratory, focusing on the behavioral and neurobiological mechanisms of fear learning and memory, particularly in relation to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety disorders. Her research emphasizes the role of the endocannabinoid system in emotional processing and explores pharmacological targets to enhance exposure-based therapies. ​

Dr. Rabinak's work has garnered substantial funding, including a co-investigator role in a $4 million NIH grant investigating allopregnanolone as a novel treatment for PTSD. She also co-leads the Wayne State Warriors Marijuana Clinical Research Program, supported by the State of Michigan's Cannabis Regulatory Agency, to study cannabinoid-based interventions for veterans with PTSD. Her contributions have been recognized with several honors, such as the Excellence in Postdoctoral Mentorship Award and election as an Associate Member of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology. Dr. Rabinak is an active member of multiple professional organizations, including the Society for Neuroscience and the International Cannabinoid Research Society. Her interdisciplinary approach and commitment to translational research continue to advance the understanding and treatment of anxiety-related disorders."