Carlos Zarate
Power Words
Where were you born?
Cordoba, Argentina
What school did you attend?
Faculty of Medicine, Catholic University of Cordoba Argentina
What gained you interest in the NIH?
I wanted to further my training in biology, neuroscience, and neuropsychopharmacology. I believe that these were the necessary skill sets to help me better understand the causes of severe mental illnesses and to develop novel treatments.
What kind of work do you do at the NIH?
My current research focus is on developing novel medications for treatment-resistant depression and bipolar disorder. My areas of expertise include biological and pharmacological aspects of mood disorders in adults. Our group conducts proof-of-concept studies utilizing novel compounds and biomarkers (magnetoencephalography [MEG] and polysomnography [PSG], positron emission tomography [PET], functional magnetic resonance imaging [fMRI] and magnetic resonance spectroscopy [MRS]) to identify potentially relevant drug targets and biosignatures of treatment response. A multidisciplinary translational research team conducts the research in our Branch, the Experimental Therapeutic and Pathophysiology Branch (ETPB). In addition, the Branch provides training to develop the next generation of clinical translational researchers.
What message would you like to send to young Hispanics who are considering going to college?
Pursuing a college degree is the key to increasing one’s knowledge and ability to improving the workings of our communities. In the field of medical sciences, a college degree can lead to a better understanding of medical illnesses through research and the development of better treatments, improved health care and quality of life for those who are afflicted from severe and chronic medical illnesses. Knowledge gained from college and life experiences combined with the spirit of service will likely result in large benefits to our society.