Eating Disorder Research Positions

Research Opportunities in Eating Disorders

Research opportunities in the field of eating disorders are vast and varied, catering to individuals looking to make a significant impact in this crucial area of mental health.

UCSD Department of Psychiatry Opportunity

The UCSD Department of Psychiatry is currently seeking an Eating Disorders Research Associate to manage a study examining the effects of psilocybin on individuals diagnosed with anorexia nervosa. This role involves essential tasks such as recruiting research subjects, administering self-report questionnaires, and maintaining study databases UCSD Job Posting.

This position represents a unique chance for individuals interested in clinical research and the intersection of mental health and innovative treatments to contribute meaningfully to ongoing studies in eating disorders.

National Eating Disorders Association Grants

The National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) plays a vital role in promoting research aimed at understanding and treating eating disorders. Since 2013, NEDA has awarded over $2 million in research grants to 20 researchers, showcasing its commitment to supporting the investigation of effective interventions for those affected by eating disorders National Eating Disorders Association.

Among the various grants offered, the Feeding Hope Award stands out. It provides up to $125,000, awarded over two years, for innovative projects that aim to advance clinical care or prevention strategies, particularly focusing on underserved communities and marginalized populations. This grant represents a significant opportunity for researchers passionate about making a difference in the field.

Grant Type	Amount	Duration	Focus Area
Feeding Hope Award	Up to $125,000	2 years	Innovative clinical care/prevention strategies
Early Career Investigator Grant	Varies	1-2 years	Support for emerging researchers in the field

In 2024, NEDA will issue an open inquiry for Letters of Intent and extend invitations to a select group of investigators to develop full grant proposals for the Feeding Hope Fund National Eating Disorders Association. This pathway further highlights the opportunities for individuals pursuing eating disorder research positions.

Individuals seeking fulfilling careers in the eating disorder treatment field can explore roles such as eating disorder clinical director, eating disorder program coordinator, and other positions that contribute to research and treatment in this important domain.

Grants for Eating Disorder Researchers

Securing funding is critical for researchers in the field of eating disorders. Several grant opportunities exist for investigators looking to advance their work in this important area. This section covers the GFED Early Investigators Grant Program, the Eating Disorder Research Focus for Grants, and the Feeding Hope Fund for Clinical Research.

GFED Early Investigators Grant Program

The GFED Early Investigators Research Grant program was founded in 2022 to support early career researchers. This program provides grants of $50,000 over the course of two years to individuals interested in advancing the field of eating disorders treatment. Such funding encourages fresh ideas and initiatives from those new to the research landscape, thereby fostering innovation. For more detailed information about the grant, visit the National Eating Disorders Association.

Grant Name	Amount	Duration
GFED Early Investigators Grant	$50,000	2 years

Eating Disorder Research Focus for Grants

The National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) emphasizes a broad spectrum of research projects for grant funding. It seeks proposals that can translate into clinical care and effective prevention strategies within one to five years. Projects specifically targeting basic science research will not be considered at this time. This focus aligns with NEDA’s mission to improve treatment methodologies and outcomes for individuals with eating disorders. Researchers interested in these positions should ensure their proposals meet these criteria. More information can be found at NEDA’s grant page.

Feeding Hope Fund for Clinical Research

NEDA offers the Feeding Hope Fund for Clinical Research, aiming to support clinically relevant human participant pilot studies directed at enhancing the lives of those affected by eating disorders. This funding initiative is particularly interested in innovative projects that can improve clinical care and prevention strategies, especially for underserved communities.

In 2024, NEDA will issue an open inquiry for Letters of Intent. Selected investigators will then be invited to develop a full grant proposal. Each investigator may submit only one grant application as Principal Investigator and must choose between applying for a Feeding Hope Award or an Early Career Investigator Research Grant.

The Feeding Hope Award offers funding of up to $125,000, to be awarded over a two-year period. For more details, refer to the National Eating Disorders Association.

Grant Name	Amount	Duration
Feeding Hope Fund	Up to $125,000	2 years

These grant opportunities are vital for individuals seeking eating disorder research positions in the USA. They not only provide essential funding but also contribute to the development and implementation of effective treatment strategies in the field.

Current Research Studies

Research into eating disorders is vital for the development of effective treatments and support systems. The following studies are currently underway, providing opportunities for those interested in eating disorder research positions.

Study on Online Self-Help Treatment

The study titled "Confirming the Effectiveness of Online Guided Self-Help Family-Based Treatment for Adolescent Anorexia Nervosa" aims to assess clinical improvements in Online Guided Self-Help Family-Based Treatment (GSH-FBT) compared to Virtual Family-Based Treatment (FBT-V). Conducted by Stanford University, this study involves adolescents aged 12-18 with Anorexia Nervosa and will take place from March 1, 2023, to March 1, 2028. Participants are expected to benefit from a potentially more efficient treatment paradigm. For more details, visit the National Eating Disorders Association.

Hormonal Skin Patch Research

The "Hormonal Skin Patch for Women with Anorexia Nervosa" study is exploring the effectiveness of the Climara Pro® skin patch in increasing bone density in premenopausal women experiencing bone loss due to Anorexia Nervosa. This research is conducted at the University of Pittsburgh and runs from August 28, 2020, to December 31, 2025. Participants, aged 19-45, will undergo various assessments, including MRI scans, CT scans, and complete questionnaires throughout the eighteen-month study. For additional information, refer to the National Eating Disorders Association.

Smart Technology for Recovery Study

Led by researchers at the University of Kansas, the "Smart Technology for Anorexia Nervosa Recovery" study aims to enhance recovery through an interactive mobile app designed for adolescents aged 13-21. This app will assist participants in managing anxiety, depressive symptoms, and life stressors, while also improving body image over a period of 12 weeks. The study will employ questionnaires, interviews, and app-based surveys, and will take place from May 1, 2023, to June 30, 2025. Further insights can be found at the National Eating Disorders Association.

UCSF Family-Based Treatment Study

The "UCSF FBT Study" offers six months of Family-Based Treatment (FBT) for females aged 14-17 diagnosed with Anorexia Nervosa. Conducted at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), the research provides in-person visits and compensation of up to $235 in Amazon gift cards for participants. This study will run from August 21, 2023, to August 31, 2027, including screenings, Zoom appointments, and self-report questionnaires. More details can be accessed through the National Eating Disorders Association.

Ongoing Research Projects

Numerous ongoing research projects seek to improve understanding and treatment of eating disorders. These studies provide valuable insights and opportunities for individuals interested in pursuing eating disorder research positions.

Eating Disorder Genetics Initiative 2

The Eating Disorder Genetics Initiative 2 aims to enroll 20,000 new participants with various eating disorders to better understand the genetic factors that contribute to these conditions. The goal is to develop improved treatment methods based on genetic findings and gain insight into the biological underpinnings of eating disorders [1]. This initiative presents numerous opportunities for researchers interested in genetics and mental health.

Innovations in Personalizing Treatment Study

The Innovations in Personalizing Treatment Study focuses on creating personalized treatment plans for individuals with eating disorders. This research utilizes idiographic models to enhance treatment responses and minimize suffering [1]. By tailoring treatment to individual needs, the study aims to improve outcomes for patients, presenting opportunities for specialized job roles in the field of eating disorder treatment.

Control Decisions After Eating Study

The Control Decisions After Eating project investigates how eating influences predictions and decision-making in individuals with bulimia nervosa. Understanding the relationship between eating behaviors and cognitive processes can help develop targeted interventions [1]. Researchers participating in this study can play a crucial role in shaping effective therapeutic strategies.

Exercise in Eating Disorders Study

The Response to Acute Exercise in Eating Disorders study examines the responses to exercise in females with eating disorders. It analyzes the correlation between exercise behaviors and the psychological aspects related to eating disorders [1]. This research is pertinent for those interested in the intersection of physical activity and mental health, offering various employment pathways in the realm of eating disorder treatment.

Engaging in these ongoing projects provides valuable experience and insight for individuals pursuing careers in the eating disorder treatment field. By participating in such studies, researchers can contribute to the advancement of knowledge and treatment methods, making a difference in the lives of those affected by eating disorders. Additionally, numerous job opportunities exist within organizations conducting these studies, including roles like eating disorder clinical director and eating disorder social worker positions.

Opportunities in Eating Disorder Research

Summer Research Fellowship Program

The Summer Research Fellowship Program in Eating Disorders at Mass General is designed for young investigators aiming to deepen their knowledge in the field. This program, established in 1997 by the Eating Disorders Clinical and Research Program (EDCRP), serves to stimulate interest in eating disorder research while training the next generation of researchers [2].

Fellowship Research Focus Areas

Research proposals for the fellowship should align with the interests of the EDCRP. Key focus areas include:

Research Area	Description
Eating Disorder Classification	Investigating the various types and classifications of eating disorders.
Longitudinal Outcome	Examining outcomes over a longer period to understand recovery trajectories.
Neuroendocrine Abnormalities	Studying hormonal differences associated with eating disorders.
Prevention Efforts	Developing and evaluating strategies to prevent eating disorders.
Brain Imaging	Conducting structural and functional brain imaging to identify abnormalities.

Previous projects have explored topics such as hippocampal connectivity and digital cognitive behavioral therapy methods in relation to eating disorders [2].

Fellowship Application Process

The application window for the Summer Research Fellowship is open from September 9 to December 1 each year, with the fellowship lasting eight weeks. Applicants must submit a research proposal that can be accomplished within the specified timeframe [2].

Those interested in this field should remain alert for application details and ensure their proposals align with the EDCRP's research priorities. This fellowship is a valuable opportunity for those seeking eating disorder research positions and aspiring to contribute to advancements in understanding and treating eating disorders.

References