8th Annual Substance Use Research Event (SURE)

SURE is a free event that showcases translational research conducted at UK, focusing on substance use and substance use disorder.

Our goal is to highlight forward-thinking research that leads to real solutions. Bringing scientists and community members together is essential for translating discovery into better outcomes for individuals with substance use disorders. 

The free event is open to all members of UK and the greater Lexington community. Attendees must register online in advance. Registration closes Feb. 2, 2026.

Speakers

We are excited to welcome Dr. Bita Moghaddam and Dr. John Kelly to SURE and look forward to the impact their expertise will have on our community.

• Bita Moghaddam, Ph.D., professor of behavioral science and psychiatry at Oregon Health and Science University, “Evolution of the Role of Glutamate in Dopamine-Related Symptoms of Mental Illness”
• John Kelly, Ph.D., Elizabeth R. Spalling Professor of Psychiatry in Addiction Medicine at Harvard Medical School, “The Changing Approach to Addiction: From Crime to Clinic and Community”

Breakout Sessions

There will also be four breakout sessions for attendees that focus on alcohol use, methamphetamine, new strategies for substance use disorder treatment and moving from policy to practice for substance use disorders.

Poster Session

A poster session will be held where attendees can showcase their research. This will include a poster competition, supported by the Substance Use Priority Research Area (SUPRA), for the following groups: staff, undergraduate students, graduate students, postdoctoral scholars and community members. Submit abstracts online by Jan. 12, 2026.