About
Mission
Founded in 1945, the Society of Biological Psychiatry (SOBP) has long been committed to advancing scientific research and education in the field of brain disorders. The Society operates within a structured framework outlined in its bylaws and constitution which guide its governance, initiatives, and commitment to fostering scientific progress.
The mission of the SOBP is to promote scientific research and education that advance the understanding, prevention, and treatment of psychiatric disorders. By fostering collaboration, innovation, and dissemination of cutting-edge findings in the biological sciences, the Society seeks to improve mental health care and enhance the lives of individuals affected by these conditions. Guided by its strategic plan, the SOBP continues to evolve its initiatives ensuring meaningful progress in the field of biological psychiatry.
Vision
The vision of the SOBP is to be the leading professional organization in the integration, advancement, and promulgation of science relevant to psychiatric disorders, with the goal of reducing or preventing the suffering of those with these disorders.
Values
Collegiality: Fostering a collaborative and respectful community that supports shared efforts to advance science for mental health
Community Engagement: Embracing and valuing the unique perspectives, backgrounds, and contributions of all individuals working to advance science for mental health.
Lifelong Learning: Commitment to the continuous pursuit of knowledge and skills to advance science for mental health
Highest Ethical Standards of Professional.
Conduct: Demonstrating respect, fairness, accountability, and excellence in psychiatric research, education, and clinical care.
Integrity: Upholding the highest standards in research and education to ensure trust and transparency in the advancement of science for mental health.
Leadership: Guiding the field by fostering innovation, collaboration, and excellence in the advancement of science for mental health
Leadership and Organizational Structure
The Society of Biological Psychiatry is structured to ensure effective leadership, strategic decision-making, and active member engagement. The Executive Committee, composed of President, President-Elect, Executive Secretary, and Treasurer, provides leadership and guidance on key initiatives, working closely with the Council, the Society’s primary decision-making body. The Council, consisting of elected members, is responsible for shaping the Society’s policies, programs, and long-term vision. Additionally, Member Committees play a vital role in carrying out the Society’s mission by organizing educational programs, reviewing membership applications, overseeing awards, and supporting career development and community engagement. The Executive Office provides essential administrative support, ensuring the smooth coordination and execution of the Society’s operations and initiatives.
| Executive Committee |
|
President Carrie Bearden, PhD |
|
President Elect Dost Öngür M.D., PhD |
|
Executive Secretary Scott Rauch, MD |
|
Treasurer Trey Sunderland, MD |
|
Immediate Past President Sophia Frangou, MD |
|
Council Linda Carpenter, MD (2022 – 2028)
|
|
Junior Councilor Tiffany Ho, PhD (2024 – 2026) |
| Journal Editors |
|
Biological Psychiatry John Krystal, Yale University School of Medicine |
|
Biological Psychiatry: Cognitive Neuroscience Neuroimaging Cameron Carter, UC Davis Imaging Research Center |
|
Biological Psychiatry: Global Open Science Deana Barch, Washington University in St. Louis |
| Executive Office | |
| Name | Role |
| Payton McClintock | Associate Manager |
| Christine Farwell | Meetings Content Manager |
| John White | Director of Innovation |
| Danielle Billinkoff | Meetings Manager |
| Kelsey Sweeney | Project Coordinator |
| SOBP is Managed by Parthenon Management Group, LLC, an Accredited Association Management Company | |
Key Policies
The Society of Biological Psychiatry operates under key policies and strategic plans that guide its governance, scientific initiatives, and member engagement. These policies ensure transparency and ethical standards.
Sustainability
The Society of Biological Psychiatry is committed to long-term financial sustainability to support its mission of advancing research, education, and professional development in biological psychiatry. The Society’s financial stability is strengthened by income generated from its three journals—Biological Psychiatry, Biological Psychiatry: Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging, and Biological Psychiatry: Global Open Science—along with membership fees that help fund key initiatives, meetings, and member programs.