Susan Bergeson

Susan Bergeson, Ph.D., is a tenured Full Professor at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) with dual appointments in the Department of Cell Biology & Biochemistry and the Department of Pharmacology & Neuroscience. She holds the Kayla Weitlauf Endowed Professorship for Women's Health and serves as Director of the Biotechnology Master's Program. Previously, she was Associate Dean of the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (2015–2022). Her research focuses on sex differences in the neuropharmacology of Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), anti-inflammatory therapeutics for neurodegenerative diseases, and translational medication development. She leads an NIH-funded lab ($7.25M, 2020–2025) advancing tetracycline analogs for AUD treatment.

Bergeson's research integrates molecular genetics, behavioral neuroscience, and preclinical models to study AUD mechanisms and therapeutic interventions. Her work extends to Alzheimer's, arthritis, cancer, and ocular neovascularization, emphasizing sex-specific responses. Recent publications (2023–2025) demonstrate a strong focus on minocycline derivatives, neuroimmune interactions, and innovative animal models (mice, minipigs) for behavioral and motor assessment.

Awards & Honors:

• University Distinguished Professor (2015)
• TTUHSC Patent Issued Award (2023)
• Unsung Hero Award, Cell Biology & Biochemistry (2023)
• GSBS Biotechnology Service Award (2022)
• Research Highlight, Board of Regents (2021)

As Director of the Biotechnology Master's Program, she oversees academic training and mentors graduate students. Her NIH grant portfolio includes $7.25M for AUD medication development, with additional funding from the Laura W. Bush Institute for Women's Health and Lyons Foundation. She teaches in the Behavioral Neuroscience Block and serves as Editor-in-Chief of Alcoholism Treatment Quarterly.