Research & Innovation

Of the nearly 50 million adults and 7.7 million youth currently living with a mental illness, less than half have access to basic treatment and care. The lack of resources and tools means that most people in need will struggle just to cope with their conditions.

We’re committed to unraveling the complexities of the human mind through cutting-edge methods and cross sector collaboration. Our mission is to transform discoveries into practical treatments, improving the lives of those affected by mental health challenges. Join us on this extraordinary journey of exploration and transformation.

You can be a catalyst for positive change by supporting research that applies the most advanced methods in imaging, genetics, epidemiology, and big data analysis to better understand the brain’s complex functions. Your gift helps researchers better translate that research into new clinical and medicinal treatments that help patients maintain a better quality of life.

Located in Research Park, a vibrant hub of dynamic innovation, entrepreneurial collaboration, and inspirational educational advances, the 180,000 sq. ft., multi-floor Translational Research Building is scheduled to open its doors in 2026. Supported by a $90 million appropriation by the Utah State Legislature, the TRB will carry out evidence-based research and advance mental health in the following areas:

• Reducing the stigma associated with mental illness and the treatment of mental illness

• Improving the mental health services available in rural parts of the state

• Improving and expanding children’s mental health, including reducing domestic violence and child abuse

• Developing effective policy to prevent mental illness and substance use and effective treatments for mental illness and substance use

• Expanding efforts to prevent and reduce suicide

• Improving understanding of mental health workforce needs

The TRB will also house a 7 Tesla MRI dedicated to brain research and innovative clinical interventions. This uniquely powerful tool, together with other advanced technologies and specialized equipment, will bring engineers, physicists, psychologists, and researchers from around the world to the TRB.

The building, designed in partnership with the Utah University School of Architecture, is physically organized and thematically planned to generate meaningful interactions and break down the silos that often plague academia. Working in “neighborhoods” – or communities of practice – researchers, educators, scientists, clinicians, students, and members of the community will come together around key issues, treatments, and training initiatives.

The TRB’s distinctive design and intuitive interdisciplinary approach will significantly accelerate the rate at which theories become real-world solutions, helping to end the cycle of despair and to bring hope to the millions of adults and children suffering with mental health issues.

Tesla MRI image courtesy of FAU Erlangen, Germany

Your support has the power to drive innovation and discovery in the realm of mental health research.

Your contribution will be a gamechanger, facilitating research that explores the depths of the mind. Here’s how your support contributes to this transformative journey:

Advanced Research Methods

Your generous gift enables us to employ the most advanced methods in imaging, genetics, epidemiology, and big data analysis. These tools allow us to delve deeper into the intricacies of the brain, providing insights that were once unimaginable.

Translation to Clinical Care

We believe in the power of translational research. Your support helps us bridge the gap between research and clinical care by translating groundbreaking discoveries into new clinical and medicinal treatments. This process enhances patients’ quality of life and brings hope to those affected by mental health challenges.

Empowering Researchers

With your generosity, we empower researchers to push the boundaries of what’s possible in mental health care. Your contribution serves as a beacon of support for those dedicated to understanding the brain and finding innovative solutions to improve the lives of individuals facing mental health issues.

Brain image courtesy of FAU Erlangen, Germany