James C West Jr.

Dr. James C. West Jr. is an Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Vice Chair for Research at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS) School of Medicine, where he also serves as a Scientist at the Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress. His leadership roles include Deputy Chair of Psychiatry (2019-2023) and Assistant Chair for Education (2016-2019).

His educational background includes:

• M.D. from University of Michigan Medical School (2001)
• B.S.E. in Aerospace Engineering from United States Naval Academy (1989)

Dr. West's research focuses on PTSD and trauma-related disorders, with emphasis on pharmacological interventions (e.g., losartan, riluzole), trauma-related nightmares, and disaster psychiatry. His work bridges military operational needs with clinical innovation, particularly in suicide prevention through firearm safety communication and medical simulation for stress control training. He actively translates biological PTSD mechanisms into novel treatments while addressing unique military mental health challenges.

His publication trends reveal a consistent focus on PTSD therapeutics, with recent work exploring angiotensin and glutamate pathways. Military operational psychiatry remains central, evidenced by simulation-based training studies and disaster response research. His interdisciplinary approach connects pharmacology, neuroscience, and field psychiatry.

Scientific recognition includes:

• Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association

As Psychiatry Clerkship Director (2013-2016) and Operation Bushmaster course director, Dr. West pioneered large-scale combat stress control simulations. His clinical trials on losartan and riluzole indicate significant research funding, while the "Let's Talk About Your Guns" podcast demonstrates innovative suicide prevention outreach. He has mentored military medical personnel through integrated psychological health teams.

Dr. West operates within USUHS's Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress, collaborating with Walter Reed National Military Medical Center and Naval Medical Centers on integrated psychological health initiatives. His work involves cross-disciplinary teams focused on traumatic brain injury, operational stress, and disaster response systems.