Our Strategy
To fulfill our mission, the National Center for Wellness and Recovery (NCWR) partners with industry, academia and government agencies working in the field of pain and addiction.
We seek partners dedicated to solving the problems of the opioid epidemic. We are looking for innovative solutions in all aspects of the disease. Our broad interests include research on pharmacological products, devices, treatment protocols, technology (such as addiction apps), education and community programs. Overall, we seek partners and collaborators who share our passion to make a difference and who bring synergistic know-how and capabilities to the research.
Our Partners
Startups
- Biocell
- IRIS
Academia
Oklahoma State University
The story of NCWR is deep with commitment and a passion to destigmatize addiction and open pathways for treatment through cutting-edge research and treatment innovations.
“As a modern land-grant university focused on offering research that solves society’s most pressing problems, OSU is tackling a major issue head-on by addressing chronic pain and addiction in our state and nation. So many lives will be impacted by this partnership, and I am confident our collaboration will truly make a difference.”
Dr. Kayse Shrum
President of Oklahoma State University
The University of Arizona
The collaboration between the National Center for Wellness and Recovery at Oklahoma State University and the University of Arizona Health Sciences Comprehensive Center for Pain and Addiction (CCPA) and Center of Excellence for Addiction Studies (CEAS) represents a significant and proactive response to the intertwined challenges of substance use disorders and chronic pain crisis. Through a range of research and clinical initiatives, we are working together to address these pressing issues. We began working together in 2022 and continue to see positive outcomes.
“This partnership provides an unprecedented opportunity to address the unmet medical need of chronic pain that affects about 1 in 3 Americans while diminishing opioid use and associated risks of addiction and overdose deaths. The partnership also will provide unique educational opportunities for young people in Arizona and in Oklahoma that will enhance innovative research in chronic pain and addiction”
Frank Porreca, Ph.D.
Research Director, Comprehensive Center for Pain and Addiction
“Over 100,000 Americans last year have suffered from an opioid overdose death. This partnership will accelerate our ability to discover novel medications, devices and therapies to help those who suffer from substance use disorder and chronic pain. This relationship will leverage the University of Arizona’s research strengths, Oklahoma State University’s dedication to clinical care and our collective passion to make a change.”
Todd Vanderah, Ph.D.
Director, Comprehensive Center for Pain and Addiction
What We Look for in Research Collaborations
The National Center for Wellness and Recovery actively seeks research partners and collaborators who share our unwavering commitment to advancing knowledge and improving outcomes for individuals grappling with chronic pain and substance use disorders. We value collaboration with organizations and individuals who bring a unique blend of expertise, innovative approaches and a passion for transformative research. Our focus is on fostering partnerships that transcend traditional boundaries, encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration that spans the continuum from bench to bedside.
We’re looking for partners who genuinely want to make a difference in the world of chronic pain and addiction. We’re big believers in the power of teamwork and think that magic happens when people with different skills come together to tackle the tough issues of chronic pain and addiction. We see collaboration as a two-way street, where partners bring their unique strengths to the table.
Together, we want to create groundbreaking solutions that can make life better for those facing chronic pain and substance use disorders. We are committed to translational research, as we’re eager to turn scientific discoveries into practical, real-world solutions.
We welcome partners who want to bridge the gap between research findings and meaningful improvements for people facing the challenges of chronic pain and substance use disorders.
For inquiries about research collaborations with the National Center for Wellness and Recovery, please contact Ann Kraft at ann.kraft@okstate.edu.
“The power of partnership lies in the unity of purpose. We look for partners at every step of the process for drug development, treatment protocols, education and treatment delivery. At the NCWR, we believe in building bridges with organizations and individuals who share our passion for transforming lives for those suffering from pain and addiction.”
Ann Kraft
Head of Strategic Partnerships, National Center for Wellness and Recovery
“In a field as dynamic and critical as wellness and recovery, it’s essential that we not only respond to the immediate challenges but also anticipate the future needs of our communities. By investing in the brightest minds and the most promising research, we are laying the groundwork for a healthier tomorrow. It’s a profound responsibility, but one that we embrace with optimism and determination.”
Eric Polak
Chief Financial Officer, National Center for Wellness and Recovery