Margarita L. Dubocovich PhD, FASPET, FACNP

Margarita Dubocovich

Margarita L. Dubocovich
PhD, FASPET, FACNP

SUNY Distinguished Professor

Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology

Jacobs School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences


Specialty/Research Focus

Behavioral pharmacology; Circadian Rhythm/Chronobiology; Drug Design; Drug Targeting; Neuropharmacology; Signal Transduction

Contact Information
955 Main Street (Room 3212)
Buffalo, New York 14203
Phone: (716) 829-3048
mdubo@buffalo.edu



Professional Summary:

My lab‘s research seeks to understand the mechanism of action of the hormone melatonin at the MT1 and MT2 G-protein coupled receptors. We study these receptors in the brain and through the body with the goal of identifying ligands that exhibit useful binding affinity and therapeutic potential. Our team of undergraduate and graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, technicians and senior scientists work with each other and with expert co-investigators in medicinal chemistry to discover and develop novel molecules that can mimic or counteract the actions of melatonin. These molecules may help treat a variety of diseases and conditions including insomnia, circadian sleep disorders, depression, seasonal affective disorders, and cardiovascular disease.

Our laboratory pursues these investigations from several angles. We assess the localization of the melatonin receptors, examine their cellular and molecular signaling mechanisms,and investigate receptor fate following prolonged exposure to melatonin. We study the distinct roles of selective MT1 and MT2 melatonin receptor ligands in modulating circadian rhythms, methamphetamine‘s ability to induce both sensitization to prolonged exposure, and stimulation of the reward system. We also study cell proliferation, survival, and neurogenesis in the brain, and the changes in gene expression underlying all these processes.

Our research ultimately aims to discover novel drugs with differential actions at the MT1 and MT2 receptors. We use molecular-based drug design, computer modeling and medicinal chemistry to design and synthesize small molecules that target these receptors as agonists, inverse agonists and/or antagonists. We then pharmacologically and functionally characterize these molecules using cell-based assays and bioassays and test them in circadian and behavioral animal models.

Education and Training:

  • PhD, Pharmacology, University of Buenos Aires School of Chemistry and Natural Sciences (1976)
  • BS, Biological Chemistry, University of Buenos Aires School of Chemistry and Natural Sciences (1971)

Employment:

  • Program Lead CTSI K Scholars program, Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI), University at Buffalo (2020-present)
  • SUNY Distinguished Professor at University at Buffalo, SUNY, University at Buffalo, Buffalo NY Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences Sciences State University of New York (SUNY),NY (2014-present)
  • PI and Program Lead, KL2 Mentored Career Development Award, Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI), University at Buffalo (2015-present)
  • Professor Emerita at Northwestern University, Pharmacology, Northwestern University Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL (2008-present)
  • Director and Founder, CLIMB Pathways at University at Buffalo, University at Buffalo, University at Buffalo (2017–2022)
  • Director, Workforce Development Core (CTSA), Clinical & Translational Science Institute (CTSI),, University at Buffalo (2015–2022)
  • Co-Director/Co-Founder, Institute for Strategic Enhancement of Educational Diversity (iSEED)), University at Buffalo, University at Buffalo (2013–2022)
  • Senior Associate Dean for Diversity and inclusion (2016-2022); Inaugural Senior Associate Dean for Inclusion and Cultural Enhancement (2012-2016), School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo (2012–2022)
  • Director and Founder, CLIMB NS at University at Buffalo, University at Buffalo, University at Buffalo (2010–2022)
  • Director and Founder, CLIMB HI Program at University at Buffalo, University at Buffalo, University at Buffalo (2009–2022)
  • Director and Founder, CLIMB Program at University at Buffalo, University at Buffalo, University at Buffalo (2009–2022)
  • Director and Founder, CLIMB UP Program at University at Buffalo, University at Buffalo, University at Buffalo (2009–2022)
  • Department Chair at University at Buffalo, Pharmacology and Toxicology, University at Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (2008–2016)
  • Director, Education and Diversity at University at Buffalo NSF Science and Technology Cen, BioXFEL, Science and Technology Center, NSF Science and Technology Center (STC) at University at Buffalo . (2013–2014)
  • Professor at University at Buffalo, Pharmacology and Toxicology, University at Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (2008–2014)
  • Director and Founder, The Collaborative Learning and Integrated Mentoring in the Biosciences (CLIMB) Program Director, Northwestern University, Northwestern University, Chicago-Evanston, IL (2007–2008)
  • Professor at Northwestern UNiversity, Molecular Pharmacology and Biological Chemistry, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine (1991–2008)
  • Associate Professor at Northwestern University, Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine (1986–1990)
  • Assistant Professor at Northwestern University, Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine (1982–1986)
  • Project Leader, Synthelabo - France (1977–1980)
  • Pharmacologist, Wellcome Research Laboratories-England (1976–1977)
  • Instructor, Pharmacology, Buenos Aires University School of Medicine (1973–1976)
  • Instructor, Biochemistry, Buenos Aires University School of Chemistry and Natural Sciences (1971–1972)
  • Teaching Assistant, Organic Chemistry, Buenos Aires University School of Chemistry and Natural Sciences (1970–1971)
See all (14 more)

Awards and Honors:

  • Julius Axelrod Award in Pharmacology (2022)
  • Paesmen Award Nomination (2021)
  • Scientific Achievement Award (2021)
  • 2020 Inaugural Buffalo Bussines First Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Awarness (IDEA) Award (2020)
  • Fellow of the American Society and Experimental Therapeutics (FASPET) (2020)
  • Inspiring Programs in STEM Award (2020)
  • 2017 Inaugural ACNP Delores C Shockley Minority Mentoring Award (2017)
  • UB CSTEP Outstanding Research Mentor Award (2017)
  • UB President’s Medal (2017)
  • Excellence in Graduate Student Mentoring Award (2015)
  • SUNY Distinguished Academy (2014)
  • School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences Dean's Award (2013)
  • Fellow of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology (FACNP). (2013)
  • Foundation Award in Excellence in Pharmacology/Toxicology (2012)
  • Mayor Byron W Brown Hispanic Heritage Recognition Award (2011)
  • Aaron B Lerner Award for Outstanding Contributions to Melatonin Research (2011)
  • Distinguished Postdoctoral Mentor Award (2011)
  • Outstanding Scientific Contributions Award (2005)
  • Visiting Scientist for Minority Institutions (1999)
  • American Physiological Society Travel Award (1989)
  • PhRMA Foundation Starter Research Grant Award (1983)
  • Travel Awards to attend IUPHAR Congresses (1981-1984-1987-1990-1998) (1981)
  • Advance Research Fellow (1974)
  • Research Fellow (1971)

Research Expertise:

  • Circadian Rhythms: Melatonin (MT1 and MT2) receptors as targets for the modulation of circadian rhythms
  • Drug Discovery: Discovery of receptor-selective melatonin ligands for the treatment of circadian sleep disorders, depression, and cancer
  • Metabolism: Metabolism, methamphetamine-induced sensitization, cell proliferation neurogenesis
  • Neuropharmacology: Cellular, molecular and behavioral neuropharmacology of G protein-coupled receptors

Research Centers:

  • Clinical and Translational Research Center (CTRC)
  • Toxicology Research Center (TRC)

Grants and Sponsored Research:

  • August 2015–December 2024
    Clinical and Translational Science Award (KL2): Mentored Career Development Award
    NIH/NCATS
    Role: Principal Investigator
    $2,706,260
  • August 2015–December 2024
    Clinical and Translational Science Award: Buffalo Clinical and Translational Research Center
    National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences
    Role: Co-Investigator
    $19,936,155
  • May 2020–April 2022
    Sustained release of luzindole
    UB-Blue Sky Program
    Role: Principal Investigator
    $10,000
  • February 2022–February 2022
    Discovery of Drugs Targeting Melatonin Receptors to Abrogate Methamphetamine Use
    SUNY
    Role: Principal Investigator
    $30,000
  • January 2021–December 2021
    A pilot placebo-controlled randomized double-blind trial of Melatonin in outpatients with COVID-19 infection
    CTSA – Pilot Grant
    Role: Principal Investigator
    $42,700
  • March 2017–December 2021
    IMSD Enabling Access To Cutting-Edge Biomedical And Behavioral Science
    NIH
    Role: Principal Investigator
    $2,117,911
  • March 2012–December 2021
    IMSD: Initiative for Maximizing Student Development: Enabling Access to Cutting-Edge Biomedical and Behavioral Science.
    NIH/NIGMS
    Role: Principal Investigator
    $4,576,887
  • June 2018–June 2021
    Zannoni Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship Award
    American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics
    Role: Principal Investigator
    $27,000
  • June 2013–June 2021
    iSEED – Institute of Strategic Enhancement of Educational Diversity
    UB Office of the Provost-3E Fund
    Role: Co-Principal Investigator
    $1,850,000
  • October 2020–December 2020
    Research Seed Grant Program
    SUNY SEED
    Role: Principal Investigator
    $7,500
  • January 2016–January 2019
    Clinical Translational Science Award (CTSA)
    National Institutes of Health
    Role: Principal Investigator
    $16,000,000
  • April 2017–December 2018
    Discovery of Circadian Modulators Selectively Targeting Melatonin Receptors
    Role: Principal Investigator
    $40,000
  • October 2013–September 2018
    National Science Foundation – Science and Technology Center (STC) Biology with X-ray Free Electron Lasers (BioXFEL)
    National Science Foundation
    Role: Co-Investigator
    $25,000,000
  • July 2014–June 2018
    Environmental Circadian Disruptors Increase Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders Risk
    National Institutes of Health
    Role: Principal Investigator
    $435,355
  • June 2010–June 2018
    Zannoni Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship Award
    American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics
    Role: Principal Investigator
    $27,000
  • January 2017–December 2017
    Professional Pathways
    Graduate School - Professional Pathways Planning Grants
    Role: Co-Principal Investigator
  • July 2016–June 2017
    Dialogues on Cultural Diversity & Culturally Responsive Health Care
    SUNY
    Role: Principal Investigator
  • July 2016–June 2017
    SUNY Explorations in Diversity and Academic Excellence Award
    SUNY
    Role: Principal Investigator
    $10,000
  • August 2016–December 2016
    UB Network for Enriched Academic Relationships
    UB-NEAR
    Role: Co-Investigator
    $10,000
  • July 2007–September 2013
    Modulation of Methamphetamine Action in the CNS
    NIH/NIDA
    Role: Principal Investigator
    $1,146,760
  • April 2009–March 2012
    Discovery of Selective MT1 Melatonin Receptor Ligands for Sleep Disorders
    NIH/NINDS
    Role: Principal Investigator
  • March 2007–February 2012
    Mentoring For Success: Developing Fundamental Skills For Biomedical Research
    IMSD: Initiative for Maximizing Student Diversity
  • April 2004–March 2011
    Modulatory Role of Melatonin in CNS Function
    NIH/NIMH
    Role: Principal Investigator
    $1,000,000
  • October 2004–September 2009
    Alliance Graduate Education and the Professoriate
    NSF
  • June 2005–May 2009
    IMSD-Stimulated Institutional Transformation Towards Increasing Student Diversity
    IMSD – Administrative Supplement
  • February 2006–February 2009
    Chicago State-Northwestern MS-PhD Bridge to the Future.
    Role: Principal Investigator
  • December 2001–November 2008
    Melatonin Receptors as Therapeutic Targets in Primates
    NIH/NIMH
    Role: Principal Investigator
    $1,125,000
  • August 2006–August 2008
    Regulation of MT1 and MT2 Melatonin Receptor Functional Sensitivity By Therapeutic Concentrations Of Rozerem.
    Takeda
    Role: Principal Investigator
  • September 2002–September 2004
    “Melatonin Regulation of MT2 Melatonin Receptors.”
    NRSA
  • February 1997–February 2002
    “Sleep/Wake Rhythms in Aging: Treatment with Nimodipine.”
  • April 2000–June 2001
    “Melatonin receptors: Characterization of binding domains.”
    NRSA
  • January 2000–December 2000
    “Strategies for Developing a Screening Test for MT3 melatonin Receptor Mediated Functional Activity”
    Servier
    Role: Principal Investigator
  • January 1998–December 1999
    “Melatonin Receptor Subtypes in Mammalian Vascular Vessels.”
    Grant-In-Aid AHAMC - AHA/AHAMC.
  • May 1996–April 1999
    “Melatonin-Light Interaction on Circadian Activity.”
    Role: Principal Investigator
  • February 1996–February 1999
    “Melatonin-Light Interaction in Circadian Activity.”
  • January 1997–January 1998
    “Novel Melatonin Analogues: Assessment of Affinity Constants.”
    Eli Lilly and Company
  • October 1995–September 1996
    “Structure/Function Relationships and Regulation of the Human ML1 Melatonin Receptor.”
  • May 1992–April 1996
    “Modulatory Role of Melatonin in CNS Function.”
    USPHS R01
    Role: Principal Investigator
  • December 1991–November 1995
    “Neural Substrates of Learning Deficit due to PCP Abuse.”
    USPHS R01
    Role: Co-Investigator
  • September 1993–August 1995
    “Melatonin and Aging.”
  • July 1990–June 1995
    “Pharmacology of Pineal Gland Biochemical Mediators”
    Glaxo, Inc.
  • August 1990–December 1991
    “Melatonin Neurotransmitter Interactions.”
  • April 1987–March 1991
    “Characterization of Melatonin Receptors in Brain.”
    Role: Principal Investigator
  • September 1987–June 1990
    “Modulatory Role of Melatonin in CNS Function.”
    USPHS R01
    Role: Principal Investigator
  • April 1989–March 1990
    “Melatonin Neurotransmitter Interactions.”
    Biomedical Research Support (NUDS)
    Role: Principal Investigator
  • April 1987–December 1988
    “In Search for Melatonin Receptor Antagonists.”
    Nelson Research
    Role: Principal Investigator
  • October 1985–September 1987
    “Melatonin Receptors in Hamster Brain.”
  • April 1985–March 1987
    “Screening Melatonin Agonists and Antagonists.”
    Nelson Research
  • February 1986–January 1987
    Noradrenergic Modulation of Serotonergic Activity
    Biomedical Research Support (NUMS)
    Role: Principal Investigator
  • July 1985–December 1986
    “Studies on Cyclohexylamine.”
    Nutrasweet Corporation
  • January 1985–December 1986
    “Regulation by Melatonin of Monoamine Receptors in Endogenous Depression.”
    NSF, United States Spain Cooperative Program in Basic Sciences US Spain
    Role: Principal Investigator
  • October 1984–September 1986
    “Autoreceptor Sensitivity After Antidepressant Treatment.”
  • September 1983–August 1986
    “Dopamine receptor subtypes in vascular tissues.”
    American Heart Association (with funds contributed by Chicago Heart Association)
    Role: Principal Investigator
  • April 1985–March 1986
    “Mechanisms of Pyrethroid Insecticide Action.”
    Biomedical Research Support (NUMS)
    Role: Principal Investigator
  • April 1983–March 1986
    “Characterization of Retinal Dopamine Receptors"
    USPHS R01
    Role: Principal Investigator
  • April 1984–March 1985
    “Alpha and Dopamine Receptor Sensitivity After Antidepressant Treatment.”
    Biomedical Research Support (NUMS)
    Role: Principal Investigator
  • January 1983–December 1983
    “Role of calcium and cyclic nucleotides on the modulation of depolarization induced release of 3H dopamine from the rabbit retina in vitro.”
    Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association Foundation Starter Grant
    Role: Principal Investigator
See all (47 more)

Patents:

  • “Modulators Of Circadian Rhythms And Uses There of”. SCHOICET, B.K., DUBOCOVICH, M.L., et al. (International Patent Application No. PCT/US20/48233): “Modulators Of Circadian Rhythms And Uses There of”. U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Filing date: August 27, 2020; Applicants: The Research Foundation of the University at Buffalo University of Buffalo , The Reagents of the University of California San Francisco, and University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. (Pending). (2020)
  • “Modulators Of Circadian Rhythms And Uses Thereof." SCHOICET, B.K., DUBOCOVICH, M.L., et al. (U.S. Patent Application No. 62/893,115): “Modulators Of Circadian Rhythms And Uses Thereof. U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Filing date: August 28, 2019; Applicants: The Research Foundation of the University at Buffalo University of Buffalo , The Reagents of the University of California San Francisco, and University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. (Pending). (2019)
  • Pharmaceutical Combination For Mood Disorders. BENITEZ KING, G.A., DORANTES BARRÓN, A.M., DUBOCOVICH, M.L., ESTRADA REYES, R., QUERO CHÁVEZ, B.D., TRUETA SEGOVIA, C. (International Patent Application No. Mx/a/2018/002510). Pharmaceutical Combination For Mood Disorders. Filing date: March 2018. Applicants: University of Buffalo, Buffalo, NY; Instituto Nacional De Psiquiatría "Ramón De La Fuente Muñíz, Mexico City, Mexico. (Pending). (2018)
  • Pharmaceutical Combination For Mood Disorders. BENITEZ KING, G.A., DORANTES BARRÓN, A.M., DUBOCOVICH, M.L., ESTRADA REYES, R., QUERO CHÁVEZ, B.D., TRUETA SEGOVIA, C. (Mexico. Patent Application No. MX2015014385). “Combinación Farmacéutica Para Trastornos Del Estado De Ánimo” Pharmaceutical Combination For Mood Disorders. Filing date: October, 2017; Applicants: University of Buffalo, Buffalo, NY; Instituto Nacional De Psiquiatría Ramón De La Fuente Muñíz, Mexico City, Mexico. (2017)
  • “2-Aryl Substituted N-Acetyltryptamines and Process of Preparing Such.” DUBOCOVICH, M.L., RAJADHYAKSHA, V.J., PECK, J.V., and HELMY, A.A. (US Patent #5,283,343): “2-Aryl Substituted N-Acetyltryptamines and Process of Preparing Such.” U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, filed 8/17/87. Issued: February 1994. (1994)
  • “2 Amidotetralines as Melatonin Agonists and antagonists.” HORN, A.S. and DUBOCOVICH, M.L. (US Patent # 5,151,446): “2 Amidotetralines as Melatonin Agonists and antagonists.” U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, filed 9/26/89. Issued: September 29, 1992. (1992)
  • “Antidepressants Agents.” DUBOCOVICH, M.L. (US Patent # 5,093,352): “Antidepressants Agents.” U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, filed 8/17/87. Issued: March 3, 1992. (1992)

Journal Articles:

See all (147 more)

Professional Memberships:

  • American College of Neuropsychopharmacology; Fellow (2013–present)
  • Catecholamine Society (2011–present)
  • American Association of Pharmacology Chairs (2009–present)
  • European Circadian Rhythms Society (2009–present)
  • Toxicology Research Center at UB; Member (2009–present)
  • Northwestern University Clinical and Translational Sciences (NUCATS) Institute; Member, NUCATS Community Engagement and Research Center (2007–2008)
  • Center for Drug Discovery and Chemical Biology (CDCCB); Core Faculty (2005–2008)
  • College International of Neuropharmacology (CINP) (2004–2008)
  • Society for Advancement of Chicanos and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) (2002–present)
  • American College of Neuropsychopharmacology; Member (1998–2012)
  • Center for Circadian Biology and Medicine (CCB&M); Core Faculty (1996–2008)
  • Buehler Center on Aging (BCA); Member (1995–2008)
  • Melatonin Club (1994–2005)
  • Asher Center for the Study and Treatment of Depressive Disorder; Member (1993–2008)
  • Northwestern University Center for Biotechnology; Member (1992–2000)
  • Robert H. Laurie Cancer Center; Member (1991–2008)
  • International Society for Neurochemistry (1991–present)
  • Catecholamine Club (1990–2011)
  • European Pineal Society (1990–2009)
  • Northwestern University Institute Neuroscience (NUIN); Charter Member (1989–2006)
  • American Association Advancement of Science (1988–present)
  • Serotonin Club (1987–present)
  • American Heart Assoc - Chicago Area (1983–2000)
  • Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (1983–1987)
  • Sigma Xi (1983–present)
  • American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics (1983–present)
  • Women in Neuroscience (1982–2010)
  • American Association of Dental Schools (1982–1984)
  • Society of Neuroscience (1981–present)
  • French Association of Pharmacology (1979–1989)
  • British Pharmacological Society; 1978–2005; 2016-pesent (1978–present)
  • Argentine Society of Clinical Research (1974–1976)
  • Latinoamerican Assoc. of Pharmacology (1974–1976)
  • Argentine Society of Pharmacology (1973–1976)
See all (24 more)

Service Activities:

  • (2022)
  • Jacobs School Faculty Council; Member (2021–present)
  • UB Faculty Recruitment, Mentoring and Retention, Scholarship, Tenure and Recognition; Member (2021–present)
  • MMJ | WKBW-TV Interview on the clinical trial “Melatonin for the treatment of COVID-19 patients”; MEDIA INTERVIEWS AND ARTICLES (2020–present)
  • Spectrum TV, Buffalo- Interview on the clinical trial “Melatonin for the treatment of COVID-19 patients”; MEDIA INTERVIEWS AND ARTICLES (2020–present)
  • WBFO Buffalo National Public Radio Interview on ”Virtual Discovery of Melatonin Receptor Ligands to Modulate Circadian Rhythms; MEDIA INTERVIEWS AND ARTICLES (2020–present)
  • UB President Council on Race; Member (2020–present)
  • ASPET Global Partnership Task Force (Member); Officer/Scientific Societies (2018–2019)
  • Unit Diversity Officer; Member (2018–present)
  • UB Research Featured as a ‘Paper of the Month’ [NIEHS, NIH] Popovska-Gorevski et al., 2017. [https://www.niehs.nih.gov/news/newsletter/2017/3/papers/dert/index.htm#a1].; MEDIA INTERVIEWS AND ARTICLES (2017–present)
  • Chemicals in Insecticides Can Increase Risk of Diabetes. Multiple interviews for radios, news papers and publications across the word [http://medicine.buffalo.edu/departments/pharmtox/news-and-events/in-the- .host.html/content/shared/smbs/media/2017/01/dubocovich-melatonin-6830.detail.html].; MEDIA INTERVIEWS AND ARTICLES (2017–present)
  • Founder and Leader of the Diversity and Inclusion Leaning Environment Committee; Founder and Leader (2017–present)
  • Dubocovich Says Study Shows Exercise and Controlled Intake of Meth May be Powerful Addiction Treatment. multiple interviews for radios, news papers and publications across the word. http://medicine.buffalo.edu/departments/pharmtox/news-and-events/in-the-news.host.html/content/shared/ smbs/media/2016/10/dubocovich-meth-exercise-6570-7.detail.html; MEDIA INTERVIEWS AND ARTICLES (2016–present)
  • British Journal of Pharmacology Themed Issue on Melatonin Editors: Claire Stanford, PhD & Margarita L. Dubocovich, PhD; Theme Issue Editor (2016)
  • ASPET Mentoring and Career Development Committee (Member); Officer/Scientific Societies (2015–2017)
  • Developmental Brain Research (2015)
  • WBFO Buffalo National Public Radio Interview with Mike Desmond on “Environmental chemicals that may boost diabetes risk by disrupting circadian rhythms are being studied at UB” http://www.buffalo.edu/news/releases/2014/08/005.html.; MEDIA INTERVIEWS AND ARTICLES (2014–present)
  • Steering Committee - Clinical and Translational Science Award Hub.; Member (2014–present)
  • BPAC PhRMA Foundation Annual Review Panel: starter grants and fellowships (Member); Study Section Member (2013)
  • iSEED Executive Committee (Chair) – (iSEED Co-Director); Chair and Co Director (2013–present)
  • SEED Steering Committee (Ex Officio) - (iSEED Co-Director); Ex Officio iSEED Co-Director (2013–present)
  • Special Emphasis Panel/Scientific Review Group: (ZGM1 MBRS-Y) (Member)(03/13/12); Study Section Member (2012)
  • NIH Summer Research Experience Programs: (ZMH1 ERB-X)(Member)(10/20/11); Study Section Member (2011)
  • Catecholamine Society: Councilor (2011-2016); Officer/Scientific Societies (2011–2016)
  • Neuropharmacology International (2011)
  • Diversity Subcommittee Faculty Council, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences; Member (2011–present)
  • Officer/Scientific Societies - Upstate New York ASPET Chapter - Pharmacology Society (UNYPS); Founder (2010), President (2012) and Past President (2013) (2010–2014)
  • UB Task Force on Graduate Diversity; Chair (2010–present)
  • NINDS R13/U13 Conference Grant Review (12/2009) (Consultant); Study Section Member (2009)
  • Neuropharmacology Study Section, (CSR/NIH) (Consultant) (06/01/09); Study Section Member (2009)
  • Officer/Scientific Societies - Professional Development Committee, Society for Neuroscience.; Committee Member (2009–2011)
  • Officer/Scientific Societies - Diversity In Neuroscience (DIN) Committee, Society for Neuroscience; Committee Member (2008–2009)
  • International Journal Neuropharmacology (2007)
  • Special Emphasis Panel, IFCN-D 02 (CSR/NIH) (Member) (07/25/06).; Study Section Member (2006)
  • Officer/Scientific Societies - Division for Neuropharmacology of ASPET - Elect (2006); Active (2007-2010); Secretary/Treasurer (2006–2010)
  • Chronobiology International (2006)
  • Journal of Pineal Research, Blackwell Publishing. (Editor in Chief: Dr. Russel Reiter); Member (2006)
  • Channel 2, 9 and CLTV evening news. Feature in JAMA, Science Magazine, Chicago Tribune, La Nacion (Argentina) and other international newspapers on the paper by Hansen et al., 2005 on “The Impact of School Daily Schedule on Adolescent Sleep”.; MEDIA INTERVIEWS AND ARTICLES (2005–present)
  • Special Emphasis Panel, reviewing grant applications on Potential long term effects of stimulant ADHD treatments in non-human primates (Member); Study Section Member (2005)
  • Officer/Scientific Societies - Great Lakes Chapter ASPET; Committee Member (2005–2007)
  • International Organizing Committee. College International Neuropsychopharmacology (CINP) Meeting, Chicago, USA (July 2006) (Member); Officer/Scientific Societies (2004–2006)
  • International Organizing Committee of Latinoamerican Congress of Pharmacology, Caracas, Venezuela (October 2005) (Member); Officer/Scientific Societies (2004–2005)
  • University of Adelaide; Australian National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).; Ad Hoc Reviewer Promotion Committee (2004)
  • University of Adelaide; Australian National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).; Ad Hoc Reviewer Promotion Committee (2003)
  • Biological Rhythms and Sleep Study Section; Study Section Member (2003–2004)
  • IUPHAR Neuropharmacology Section; Secretary-Treasurer (2002–2006)
  • ASPET Women in Pharmacology Committee (Member); Officer/Scientific Societies (2002–2005)
  • Tumor Biology (2002)
  • Society for Research In Biological Rhythms; Executive Advisory Committee (2002)
  • Site Visit / Special Emphasis Panel, NINDS-2002/10 Council ZNS1 SRB-H (S2) (Member); Study Section Member (2002)
  • University of Adelaide (Australia); Australian National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).; Ad Hoc Reviewer Promotion Committee (2001)
  • Officer/Scientific Societies - Division of Pharmacology Education of ASPET; Executive Board (2001–2005)
  • The Sigma and RBI Handbook of Receptor Classification and Signal Transduction Handbook. Contributor to Melatonin Receptor Nomenclature and Signaling.; Workshop/Working Group Participant (2000–2015)
  • British Journal of Pharmacology (BJP) Compendium – Contributor to Melatonin Receptor Nomenclature.; Workshop/Working Group Participant (2000–2015)
  • Center for Scientific Review Advisory Committee to evaluate peer review within the Integrative, Functional and Cognitive Neuroscience Integrated Review Group (IFCN IRG). Center for Scientific Review (CSR), NIH.; Workshop/Working Group Participant (2000–2015)
  • Workshop on “Circadian Rhythms in Human Health and Disorders,” National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), September 14–15, 2006, Georgetown, Washington, DC.; Workshop/Working Group Participant (2000–2006)
  • Neuroscience (2000)
  • Bank of Reviewers of the National Agency of Scientific and Technological Evaluations, Medical Science, FONCYT, Buenos Aires, Argentina.; Ad Hoc Reviewer of Grants and Fellowships (2000)
  • NSERC Award, Canada; Ad Hoc Reviewer of Grants and Fellowships (2000)
  • PSC-CUNNY 32 Research Award, The City University of New York, NY.; Ad Hoc Reviewer of Grants and Fellowships (2000)
  • Special Emphasis Panel - Integrative, Functional and Cognitive Neuroscience 3 (IFCN-3) (CSR/NIH); Study Section Member (2000–2003)
  • Channel 2 Evening News, Interview with Dr. Breener; MEDIA INTERVIEWS AND ARTICLES (1999–present)
  • Channel 5 Evening News, Interviewed by R. L. Ray for TV show on Sleep (Aired May 15–16, 1999); MEDIA INTERVIEWS AND ARTICLES (1999–present)
  • Chicago Tribune, Interviewed and quoted on article on Sleep in adolescents (March 28, 1999); MEDIA INTERVIEWS AND ARTICLES (1999–present)
  • Pharmacology and Toxicology (1999)
  • Journal Neurological Sciences (1999)
  • Pharmacological Reviews (1999)
  • The University Texas, Health Science Center at San Antonio (TX); committee chair by Dr. Mifflin; Ad Hoc Reviewer Promotion Committee (1999)
  • University of Aberdeen, King’s College (Scotland, UK); requested by Professor D. Houlihan (Dean); Ad Hoc Reviewer Promotion Committee (1999)
  • Officer/Scientific Societies - ASPET Committee on Minorities Affairs Member (1999–2002); Chair (2002–2005); Past Chair (2005–2006); Member/Chair/Past Chair (1999–2006)
  • Work Safety Magazine, Interview on Electric Magnetic Fields (EMF) Working Group Meeting; MEDIA INTERVIEWS AND ARTICLES (1998–present)
  • Chicago Tribune, Interviewed and quoted on article on Electric Magnetic Fields (EMF); MEDIA INTERVIEWS AND ARTICLES (1998–present)
  • Melatonin Club; President (1998–2006)
  • Molecular Endocrinology (1998)
  • EMF RAPID NIEHS Working Group Report (Member). “Health Effects from Exposure to Power-Line Frequency Electric and Magnetic Fields.” (The group was charged with preparing the EMF-RAPID final report for presentation to Congress). June 15–24, 1998, Minnesota.; Workshop/Working Group Participant (1998)
  • EMF RAPID Science Review Symposium. “Melatonin” April 6-9, 1998, Phoenix, Arizona.; Workshop/Working Group Participant (1998–1988)
  • Channel 2 Evening News, Interview with Dr. Breener; MEDIA INTERVIEWS AND ARTICLES (1997–present)
  • Fundraising Subcommittee, Society for Neuroscience, Chicago, IL; Officer/Scientific Societies (1997–1998)
  • Journal of Biological Rhythms (1997)
  • Trends in Neuroscience (1997)
  • Journal of Immunology (1997)
  • Molecular and Cell Biochemistry (1997)
  • Pharmacological Biochemistry and Behavior (1997)
  • Journal of Clinical Investigation (1997)
  • Bioorganic and Medicinal Chemistry (1997)
  • Molecular Pharmacology (1997)
  • Neuroendocrinology (1997)
  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Cambridge, MA); committee chair Dr. E. Bizzi; Ad Hoc Reviewer Promotion Committee (1997)
  • American Drugist Magazine, Interview with Laura Klepacki; MEDIA INTERVIEWS AND ARTICLES (1996–present)
  • Men’s Journal Magazine, Interview; MEDIA INTERVIEWS AND ARTICLES (1996–present)
  • Catecholamine Club: Councilor (1992-2011); President (1997–1998); President (2001-2002); Officer/Scientific Societies (1996–2011)
  • Workshop on “Melatonin and Sleep.” NIA (NIH); Workshop/Working Group Participant (1996)
  • Channel 2 News, Interview with Martha Lebau; MEDIA INTERVIEWS AND ARTICLES (1995–present)
  • NU News/NU Actuality Services, Radio Interview with Chelsea & Mary Jane; MEDIA INTERVIEWS AND ARTICLES (1995–present)
  • News Week Magazine, Phone Interview with Karen, Chicago Bureau; MEDIA INTERVIEWS AND ARTICLES (1995–present)
  • Channel 2 Evening News, Interview with Dr. Breener; MEDIA INTERVIEWS AND ARTICLES (1995–present)
  • Channel 5 Morning News, Interview with Wendy Telerico; MEDIA INTERVIEWS AND ARTICLES (1995–present)
  • American Bar Association Journal, Phone Interview with Barbara Buchholz; MEDIA INTERVIEWS AND ARTICLES (1995–present)
  • Radio France International, Interview in English and Spanish with Carol Pineau; MEDIA INTERVIEWS AND ARTICLES (1995–present)
  • USA Today; MEDIA INTERVIEWS AND ARTICLES (1995–present)
  • Endocrinology (1995)
  • General and Comparative Endocrinology (1995)
  • Air Force Office of Scientific Research; Ad Hoc Reviewer of Grants and Fellowships (1995)
  • IUPHAR International Union of Pharmacology Subcommittee for Melatonin Receptor Nomenclature and Classification; Chair (1995–2015)
  • Science (1994)
  • Psychopharmacology (1994)
  • Current Eye Research (1994)
  • Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana; Ad Hoc Reviewer of Grants and Fellowships (1994)
  • Instituto Venezolano Investigaciones Cientificas (Caracas, Venezuela); committee chair Dr. A. Soyano; Ad Hoc Reviewer Promotion Committee (1994)
  • Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science (1993)
  • Biological Signals (1993)
  • Medical Research Council (MRC), London, UK; Ad Hoc Reviewer of Grants and Fellowships (1993)
  • American Cancer Society, Atlanta, GA; Ad Hoc Reviewer of Grants and Fellowships (1993)
  • National Institute of Mental Health (Bethesda, MA); committee chair Dr. J.M. Saavedra; Ad Hoc Reviewer Promotion Committee (1993)
  • Local Organizing Committee, 3rd IUPHAR Satellite Meeting on “SEROTONIN”, July 30–August 3, 1994, Chicago, IL (Member); Officer/Scientific Societies (1993–1994)
  • PANG, S.F., DUBOCOVICH, M.L. and BROWN, G.M.: “Biological Signals.” Issue on “Melatonin Receptors in Peripheral Tissues.” The Medical Scientific Publishers, Karger, Basel (1993)
  • Journal of Medicinal Chemistry (1992)
  • The Israel Science Foundation, Jerusalem, Israel; Ad Hoc Reviewer of Grants and Fellowships (1992)
  • NIMH Neurochemistry and Neuropharmacology Review Committee (NIH); Study Section Member (1992–1996)
  • Journal of Endocrinology (1991)
  • American Journal of Physiology (1991)
  • Naunyn Schmiedebergs’ Arch. of Pharmacology (1991)
  • Pharmacology Communications. Harwood Academic Publishers, Switzerland; Associated Editor (1991–2004)
  • USA Today; MEDIA INTERVIEWS AND ARTICLES (1990–present)
  • Croatian Institute for Brain Research, Zagreb, Croatia; Scientific Advisory Board Member (1990–2005)
  • ASPET Division of Neuropharmacology Executive Committee (Member); Officer/Scientific Societies (1990–1992)
  • Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology (1990)
  • Neuroscience Letters (1990)
  • Proceedings National Academy of Science (1990)
  • Journal of Pineal Research (1990)
  • Allegheny Singer Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA; Ad Hoc Reviewer of Grants and Fellowships (1990)
  • Interneuron Pharmaceuticals Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts; Scientific Advisory Board Member (1989–1990)
  • Neuroendocrinology (1989)
  • BRSG Grants for the University of Alaska, Fairbanks, Alaska; Ad Hoc Reviewer of Grants and Fellowships (1989)
  • National Institute of Mental Health (Bethesda, MA); committee chair Dr. R.M. Cohen; Ad Hoc Reviewer Promotion Committee (1989)
  • Various Insitutes Northwestern University Neuroscience Institute, Robert H. Lurie Cancer Center, The Asher Center for the Study & Treatment of Depressive Disorders, Center for Drug Discovery and Chemical Biology, Center for Sleep and Circadian Biology; Participant (1989–2008)
  • Doctoral Fellowships in Biol. Science, Review Panel, Howard Hughes Medical Institute; Reviewer/Study Section Member (1989–1992)
  • DUBOCOVICH, M.L.: “Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology” Issues on “Retina,” Vol. I and II, Plenum Publishing Corporation, NY; Special Issue Editor (1989–1991)
  • European Journal of Pharmacology (1988)
  • Grants-In-Aid Review Committee, American Heart Association, Chicago; Study Section Member (1988)
  • Experimental Eye Research (1987)
  • National Science Foundation; Ad Hoc Reviewer of Grants and Fellowships (1987)
  • NIH Fogarty Fellowship Program; Ad Hoc Reviewer of Grants and Fellowships (1987)
  • New York Academy of Science; Ad Hoc Reviewer of Symposium Proposals (1986)
  • Neurochemistry International (1986–2022)
  • Circulation Research (1986)
  • Experientia (1986)
  • Brain Research (1986)
  • Alcohol and Drug Research (1986)
  • Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology (1986)
  • Chicago Chapter Society for Neuroscience Councilor (1985–1989), Secretary Treasurer (1989–1990), Treasurer (1990–1993). President Elect (1993–1994), President (1994–1995), Past President (1995–1996).; Officer/Scientific Societies (1985–1996)
  • Journal of Neurochemistry (1985)
  • Biological Psychiatry (1985)
  • Neuropharmacology (1984)
  • Therapeutics (1983)
  • Life Science (1983)
  • Journal of Pharmacology Experimental

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Phone: (716) 829-3048
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