A collaborative campuswide program that accelerates development of next-generation treatments for brain disorders

Project Lead: Ted Abel

Funding Approved: Fiscal Year 27
Project Status: In Progress
Funded Amount: $600,000 over three years

The Iowa Program in Experimental Neurotherapies (IPEN) is a collaborative research initiative that will accelerate the development of next-generation treatments for brain disorders by translating neuroscience discoveries into real-world therapies. The program aligns with the university’s strategic priorities to advance innovative research, strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration, and increase the societal impact of discovery.

IPEN will bring together researchers from four colleges and seven departments to pursue high-risk, high-impact neurotherapeutic innovation. By integrating molecular, pharmacological, and circuit-based therapeutic approaches, the program will address neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders across the lifespan and create new opportunities for cross-campus collaboration.

The initiative will support pilot-stage discoveries, accelerate clinical readiness, and position the university for major external funding opportunities and industry partnerships. By expanding Iowa’s leadership in translational brain science, IPEN will help advance promising treatments that improve outcomes for individuals affected by brain disorders.