Marijuana and addiction are the topics of the next Science Café on Tuesday, Sept. 1.
Jim Sorrell, Ph.D., associate professor of psychiatry at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, will present a talk titled, “Why the human brain is primed for addiction,” which focuses on the effects of marijuana and why it has both the potential for medical benefits and misuse.
His presentation will begin at 7 p.m. at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. in Omaha.
A psychiatrist, Dr. Sorrell provides consultation services for medical and surgical patients with a focus on clinical services and research in psychiatric aspects of liver disease, HIV/AIDS, oncology and transplantation. He also develops telepsychiatry services that will help soldiers on a range of issues from post-traumatic stress disorder to depression and substance abuse.
He was co-host of the former "Sunday Night Shrink Rap," a weekly, one-hour call-in radio show in Omaha for young adults.
The Science Cafes are part of an effort by UNMC and other groups to increase the population’s science literacy. Hosted by UNMC, BioNebraska and the Nebraska Coalition for Lifesaving Cures, Science Cafes are held the first Tuesday of each month.
A more scientifically literate populace is a goal in UNMC’s strategic plan. The goal of the committee has been to introduce and get young adults interested in science by presenting it in a casual setting.
Free pizza, provided by the Nebraska Coalition for Lifesaving Cures, will be available for the first 50 people in attendance.
For more information on upcoming and past Science Cafes in Omaha and Lincoln, visit www.unmc.edu/sciencecafe