An interdisciplinary team from Texas Tech University, College of Human Sciences, the Universidad de Antioquia (Colombia, South America) and the Universidad de CES (Colombia, South America) have been awarded a prestigious competitive grant from Cociencias (the Colombian National Science Foundation) to investigate the neuropsychological and brain characteristics of Colombian children suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The project also involves collaboration with the CEDI-MED brain imaging center in Medellin, Colombia. Co-PIs on the grant are Drs. Michael O'Boyle and Elizabeth Trejos (TTU COHS, HDFS); Dr. Mauricio Barrera-Valencia (U de A) and Dr. Lillian Calderon-Delgado (U de CES).

Barrera-Valencia

Trejos

This two-year project (valued at approximately $100K) will be the first of its kind in Colombia and is designed to use local fMRI technology to explore how recurrent exposure to violence from paramilitary groups and the drug cartel in Medellin, Colombia have impacted on the brain development and neuropsychological functioning of Colombian children.

Calderon-Delgado

O'Boyle