Matthew W. Buczynski

Matthew W. Buczynski is an Assistant Professor at the School of Neuroscience, part of the College of Science at Virginia Tech. Holding a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the University of California San Diego (2008) and postdoctoral training at The Scripps Research Institute (2009-2016), he joined Virginia Tech in August 2016 after completing his postdoctoral fellowship.

• Education:
  • B.S. in Chemistry, University of Michigan, 2001
  • Ph.D. in Biochemistry, University of California San Diego, 2008
  • Postdoctoral Training, The Scripps Research Institute, 2009-2016

Dr. Buczynski’s research program focuses on identifying novel druggable targets for addiction and neurological disorders through mass spectrometry and behavioral pharmacology. His work integrates chemical biology, molecular pharmacology, and in vivo microdialysis to study molecular changes in the brain during chronic drug exposure. Key areas include nicotine dependence, ethanol withdrawal, and cross-talk between pain and addiction mechanisms.

His recent publications highlight endocannabinoid system modulation, TRPV1/TRPA1 receptor activation in pain, and diacylglycerol lipase (DAGL) mechanisms in nicotine withdrawal. He employs both self-administration and forced exposure models to validate therapeutic targets. Prospective students can contact him directly through his lab’s website.