David Roalf

Dr. David R. Roalf is a distinguished neuroscientist and researcher at the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine, specializing in neurodevelopment and psychosis. With a Ph.D. in Behavioral Neuroscience from Oregon Health & Science University, his work focuses on understanding the neural mechanisms underlying cognitive and behavioral deficits in psychiatric disorders. He has pioneered the use of cutting-edge neuroimaging techniques, such as Glutamate Chemical Exchange Saturation Transfer (GluCEST) MRI, to measure brain neurotransmitter function in vivo. His research aims to bridge the gap between brain structure, function, and psychiatric conditions, with a particular emphasis on schizophrenia, aging-related cognitive decline, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Dr. Roalf's contributions have led to new insights into the neurobiological basis of psychiatric illnesses, paving the way for more precise diagnostic tools and targeted therapeutic interventions.

Beyond his research, Dr. Roalf is a dedicated mentor and educator, guiding the next generation of neuroscientists through his involvement in graduate and medical training programs. He has played a key role in advancing diffusion MRI analysis techniques and has been instrumental in refining methods to ensure the accuracy of neuroimaging studies. His collaborative spirit extends across multiple departments at Penn, the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), and national and international research networks. As a prolific contributor to the field, he has served on NIH study sections, editorial boards, and professional societies, continually pushing the boundaries of cognitive and psychiatric neuroscience. With a passion for understanding the fundamental building blocks of brain function, Dr. Roalf remains at the forefront of scientific discovery, committed to translating research into clinical advancements that improve patient outcomes.