The Clinical and Research Institute on Addictions (CRIA) is a long-standing national leader in the study of substance use and misuse, addiction and treatment. For nearly 50 years, we have conducted groundbreaking research on significant addiction issues.
CRIA scientists are members of multiple departments and schools within UB, allowing CRIA to explore interdisciplinary methods to address addiction issues.
CRIA offers opportunities for researchers and other professionals to develop their skills and knowledge through our pre and postdoctoral research training program and our T32 collaborative seminars.
CRIA scientists conduct groundbreaking research about the brain mechanisms that create a vulnerability to addiction in order to develop alternative approaches to treating addiction.
CRIA is at the forefront of testing and refining new treatment options for providers who deliver real-world intervention to patients experiencing alcohol and drug-related problems.
Our researchers study the many factors that can lead to addiction, including prenatal exposure to alcohol, tobacco or other drugs, social/cultural influences, family dynamics and personality types.
Increased use may be linked to the rise in prescription drug abuse, as people who abuse drugs such as Oxycontin or Vicodin look for a greater, cheaper high.
Prescription drug abuse and its consequences – treatment admissions, ER visits and overdose deaths – have increased to an epidemic. Learn more about this trend in our Expert Summary.
College drinking continues to be a public health challenge, with negative consequences including injuries, assaults and even death. Learn more in our Expert Summary.
