A research-based approach to prevent, reduce, and treat addiction

The nation is facing an unprecedented opioid addiction crisis—one that becomes even more complex in the midst of a global pandemic. 

At Indiana University, we’re doing something about it.

With formidable and extensive research capabilities in healthcare, informatics, clinical medicine, nursing, and social work, and through dedicated partnerships with community and industry leaders, IU is working steadfastly to understand, prevent, and treat substance use disorder (SUD) at a system-wide level.

This is the largest, most comprehensive statewide response to the opioid addictions crisis in the nation—and the largest led by a university.

A complex problem requires a comprehensive solution

From researching the genetic, behavioral, and psychological aspects of addiction to understanding the greater economic implications, we’re reimagining what it means to fight addiction.

Data-driven decision making

To keep health professionals and policy makers informed, we need a clear picture of what is driving this epidemic—and where it’s headed.

Drawing on IU’s unparalleled computing infrastructure, we’re leveraging the power of big data to analyze and visualize newly collected data to transform our ability to fight addiction.

National law and policy interventions

Public policy, economic strategies, and legal frameworks demonstrably affect addiction and rehabilitation rates.

We’re working to identify policies that inhibit recovery, forecast and evaluate the impact of new policies, diagnose critical gaps in the criminal justice system, and make data-based recommendations for change.

Indiana University is moving the world forward

Preserving human history

We’re digitizing nearly half a million historical video, sound, and film recordings.

Learn why it‘s important

Preparing for responsible space travel

Can Mars sustain life? We’re about to find out. But first, IU astrobiologist Lisa Pratt is making sure it’s safe to explore.

Meet NASA‘s Planetary Protection Officer

At IU we go all in

Our commitment to reversing the opioid crisis is only the beginning.

The IU School of Medicine is the largest in the country, committed to reinventing healthcare standards here and around the world. The Hamilton Lugar School of Global and International Studies teaches more languages than any other American university to prepare graduates for meaningful global engagement.

The Jacobs School of Music, regarded as one of the best in the country, continues to yield legendary musicians, while #1-ranked programs from the Kelley School of Business and the Paul H. O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs prepare tomorrow’s brightest minds for tomorrow’s biggest challenges.

Indiana University is one of the nation’s leading research institutions, and our 200-year pursuit of advancing knowledge and nurturing creativity gains momentum every day.

Learn more about the fight

Responding to addiction at IU