Erika F. H. Saunders

Erika F. H. Saunders is the Gerald B. Shively/Robert Y. Tan Professor in Biological Psychiatry and Chair of the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health at Penn State Neuroscience Institute. Her research investigates biological, psychological and social factors influencing bipolar disorder and depression, examining how neural systems, stress responses, and treatment delivery affect mood, health outcomes, and functional capacity.

Clinically, she specializes in diagnosing and treating mood disorders. She holds leadership positions including President of the American Association of Chairs of Departments of Psychiatry (2022-2023) and has been recognized as a Fellow of both the American Society of Clinical Psychopharmacology and American College of Psychiatrists.