French Government Honors Dr. Volkow

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The French Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM) awarded its 2009 International Prize to NIDA Director Dr. Nora D. Volkow. The biomedical research organization recognized Dr. Volkow for her groundbreaking work demonstrating that drug addiction usurps the brain's reward circuitry and drives compulsive behaviors. A research psychiatrist and scientist specializing in neuroimaging, Dr. Volkow has served as NIDA's Director since 2003. INSERM honors researchers whose basic or clinical research has advanced public health. INSERM selected seven award winners in 2009. Dr. Volkow accepted the award during a ceremony at the College of France learning center in Paris on December 17, 2009.