Center for Compulsive Behavior and Addiction
Eating Disorders Division

Mission Statement

Eating disorders represent one of the most dangerous compulsive behaviors and is clearly linked to decreased lifespan as well as numerous other associated health issues. The mission of this division is to understand the brain circuitry that underlies eating disorders via preclinical studies that employ neuro-anatomical, molecular and imaging endpoints. Towards these ends, we will use immuno-histochemistry, genomics, proteomics and SPECT scans to elucidate brain systems that underlie eating disorders. Once establishing eating disorders in preclinical studies, attempts to reverse this compulsive behavior will be made using pharmacological and neurosurgical interventions. Finally, when a particular therapeutic domain appears effective, it will be tested in patients suffering from a compulsive eating disorder.

 — Roy Bakay, MD

Division Staff Profiles

Roy A.E. Bakay, MD
Roy A.E. Bakay, MD, is professor, vice chairman and director of neurosurgery research, Department of Neurological Surgery, at Rush University Medical Center. He has held the A. Watson and Sarah Armour III Presidential Chair since 2003. He has published extensively on topics ranging from sophisticated surgical technique to the pathophysiology of Parkinson’s and epilepsy to various treatment modalities such as vagal nerve stimulation and deep brain stimulation. Dr. Bakay has served as principal investigator on a variety of studies ranging from examining gene therapy in early Alzheimer’s disease to feasibility studies of stem cells in CNS transplantation. His expertise as a researcher and a surgeon will be invaluable as we explore the brain’s functioning in addiction and compulsive behaviors and possible ways to better understand and treat those disorders.

Sheila Dowd, PhD

Sheila Dowd, PhD, is a clinical psychologist and assistant professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and is an associate director of the psychiatry residency training at Rush University Medical Center. Dr. Dowd completed her training in cognitive behavioral therapy at the University of Illinois at Chicago, specializing in health psychology.  She is a highly experienced clinical researcher collaborating with Philip Janicak, MD on novel interventions for depression, schizophrenia, and substance abuse. Her clinical expertise is in the area of mood and anxiety disorders as well as health issues such as weight management.

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