# Center for Research on Ethical, Legal & Social Implications of Psychiatric, Neurologic & Behavioral Genetics

> **NIH NIH RM1** · COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES · 2021 · $1,046,482

## Abstract

Project Summary/Abstract. This application proposes the continuation of a Center for Research on the
Ethical, Legal & Social Implications of Psychiatric, Neurologic & Behavioral (PNB) Genetics at Columbia
University Medical Center (CUMC), in collaboration with The Hastings Center. We have been funded since
April 2010, initially under a developing center award and since 2013 as a full Center of Excellence in ELSI
Research (CEER). This proposal builds on the foundation that we have created over the last 7-1/2 years,
elaborating a set of empirical and conceptual/normative research activities and educational experiences that
include a focus on identification of emerging ELSI issues in PNB genetics, translation and dissemination of our
findings, and engagement of key stakeholders. Our work is based on the particular ethical, legal and social
challenges presented by PNB genetics arising from its implications for: personal identity, including views of
normality and pathology; perceived responsibility for behaviors related to health and reproduction, and moral
choices; and ambiguity regarding the future, given the complexity of genetic and nongenetic influences on
many PNB disorders. Although these characteristics are not unique to PNB genetics, they tend to be especially
salient in psychiatry, neurology, and the study of behavior. Our Center will continue to promote thoughtful
consideration of the range of issues arising in the context of PNB genetics and develop innovative approaches
to addressing them. Specifically, we will undertake a focused program of research that explores the impact of
genomic testing in autism on individuals and families—as a potential model for other PNB disorders—
considering its effects on identity, perceived responsibilities, and responses to ambiguity in life-trajectories,
along with systematic consideration of the broader conceptual and normative implications of our findings. To
maximize the value of our research, we will create robust mechanisms to translate the empirical and normative
output of our research into recommendations for policy and practice, capitalizing on the involvement of other
experts and key stakeholder groups. At the same time, we will implement a systematic approach to identifying
emerging issues in the ELSI of PNB genetics, alerting ELSI researchers to these issues, and selecting a
subset of issues for more intensive exploration. With an eye on the future of ELSI studies, we will develop a
range of career experiences at key points along the ELSI pipeline, from undergraduates to faculty members. In
sum, we will create a structure that builds on our existing strengths and accomplishments to enhance
transdisciplinary collaboration, facilitate the conduct of innovative research, and foster intellectual growth
among both faculty and trainees.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10207705
- **Project number:** 5RM1HG007257-09
- **Recipient organization:** COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES
- **Principal Investigator:** Paul Stuart Appelbaum
- **Activity code:** RM1 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2021
- **Award amount:** $1,046,482
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2013-09-17 → 2023-06-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10207705

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10207705, Center for Research on Ethical, Legal & Social Implications of Psychiatric, Neurologic & Behavioral Genetics (5RM1HG007257-09). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-23 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10207705. Licensed CC0.

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