A Journey of Academic Excellence
Brandon Curry’s academic journey reflects his diverse interests and dedication to learning. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Cellular and Molecular Biology from Northeastern State University and a bachelor’s degree in marketing with a minor in international business from the Spears School of Business at Oklahoma State University. Despite a promising career with a Fortune 500 company, Curry’s love for science remained constant. Today, he is a graduate student in Biomedical Sciences with an emphasis on Neuroscience at Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences and works as a scientist at the National Center for Wellness and Recovery (NCWR).
A Personal Drive for Mental Health Research
Curry’s move to NCWR was personal, sparked by family experiences with substance use disorders (SUD).
“My biological father, my entire life, has been homeless because of his struggles with alcohol use disorder (AUD),” Curry explained. “I grew up in Colorado. Nobody chooses to almost freeze to death every winter. As I got older, I started to realize that is a choice your genes are probably making for you. He probably can’t control that.”
Curry explained that he also has other loved ones who battle SUD. These personal connections have helped shape Curry’s understanding and compassion while fueling his dedication to making a meaningful difference in the field of mental health and addiction research.
Building NCWR from the Ground Up
Joining the NCWR offered Curry the unique opportunity to be part of a pioneering effort from the ground up. His role involves not only traditional research but also crucial tasks like setting up laboratories and developing protocols. This startup-like environment allows Curry to apply his diverse skill set, blending his business experience with scientific innovation.
Focusing on Molecular Biology and Pain Management
At the NCWR, Curry focuses on the molecular biology of mental health, particularly the mechanisms of pain and addiction. The center’s proactive approach addresses existing challenges in opioid addiction and explores innovative methods that could lead to scientific breakthroughs in pain management and SUD. This focus aligns perfectly with Curry’s research interests and personal commitment to making a significant impact in the field.
Craig Werner, Ph.D., associate director of neuroscience at NCWR, said Curry’s contributions are important.
“Brandon has an incredible work ethic and unique blend of skills, experiences, and interests, which he’s using to help build up our research program. He’s an integral member of our team.”
A Unique Blend of Skills
Curry’s journey shows how diverse paths can lead to meaningful contributions in science and medicine. His business experience and scientific expertise, combined with his personal experience with loved ones facing SUD, give him a unique perspective and passion that could help change lives.
Fun Facts
Curry’s love for baseball started early. He played through high school and now has an impressive collection of baseball cards. Among his prized possessions are three 1989 Ken Griffey Jr. rookie cards. Griffey has always been Curry’s favorite player, and he’s still on the hunt for more of these iconic cards.