Rachel R Luba, PhD

My interest in substance use disorder research and treatment stems from both personal and professional experiences. I grew up in a family, like many, that grappled with addiction and its consequences and was surrounded by people who boldly expressed compassion and acceptance for people who use drugs in a world that often demands the opposite. These early experiences shaped my commitment to do research and deliver treatment for people who use drugs that is evidence-based, person-centered, and is grounded in principles of harm reduction. I am life-long New Yorker. I was born on Long Island and attended Fordham University for my undergraduate degree and SUNY Albany for my PhD in Clinical Psychology. I completed my pre-doctoral internship at Stony Brook University then completed a T32 fellowship in the Division on Substance Use Disorders at Columbia University from 2020-2023. In 2024, I received a K23 mentored-career development award focused on buprenorphine induction strategies for people who use fentanyl and high potency synthetic opioids. I have had the opportunity to work with incredible mentors, including Sandra Comer, Francis Levin, and John Mariani.