Dr. Rod Paulsen brings a rare combination of clinical leadership, research experience, and deep curiosity about the mind. As Director of Psychiatry and Psychopharmacology, his work sits at the intersection of neuroscience, mental health, and innovative approaches to treatment. His academic path began at NYU, where he majored in neuroscience and explored the mind through the study of psychoactive substances. That early interest led him to a role as a research assistant on the NYU Psilocybin Project, an experience that helped shape his decision to pursue psychiatry.
He later earned a master’s degree in biomedical sciences at LSU Health Sciences Center in New Orleans, completing his thesis in Dr. Scott Edwards’ lab on the neurobiology of hyperalgesia during opioid withdrawal. During medical school at LSU New Orleans, he also served as a night sitter on MAPS’ trial of MDMA-Assisted Psychotherapy for PTSD, while further expanding his knowledge in the Nichols lab, where he learned about the anti-inflammatory effects of serotonergic psychedelics.
Dr. Paulsen’s interests include neuropsychopharmacology, interventional psychiatry, and drug policy.