History 
The Neuropsychiatric Research Institute was created to be a catalyst for supporting research and innovation in the science of health care, focusing on diseases and disorders of the brain and central nervous system. The development of new therapies depends on scientific inquiries in both basic science and clinical research - the kinds of collaborations supported and encouraged by NRI.
Current NRI-supported research includes development and analysis of new treatments in eating disorders and obesity. NRI has also conducted basic science research to increase knowledge of the brain’s structure and chemistry.

In addition to research, the Institute promotes continuing education for physicians and other health-care professionals. NRI offers opportunities for medical students, post-doctoral fellows and others pursuing scientific studies.

The Institute, an independent nonprofit organization, works closely with the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences(UNDSOMHS). NRI’s president also serves as chairman of the School’s Department of Neuroscience.

Focus of Research 
NRI scientists study the brain’s functions as they relate to some of the problems families fear most, of special concern among young people-including eating disorders and obesity.

In the past, NRI has conducted and supported basic science research in changes in the brain related to aging, including dementia and memory loss; causes of Alzheimer and Parkinson’s disease; and development animal research models. Currently, NRI continues to broaden its focus into new knowledge and aspects of technology. Several current studies on eating disorders at NRI illustrate this use of technology. Hand-held computers are being used to gather information from patients with eating disorders during the course of their daily lives, which allows NRI scientists to better understand what is happening to these people on a daily basis. This technology, called ecological momentary assessment, has not been previously applied to eating disorders in such a sophisticated format and should provide exciting new data and leads for further future studies.

Clinical Research  
NRI conducts and supports clinical research to develop creative, innovative approaches to the care of patients with diseases of the brain. The Institute funds and manages projects which draw together scientists from UND School of Medicine and Health Science, North Dakota State University, and physicians practicing in the Red River Valley.
The Institute is actively involved in support of research conducted by physicians at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Fargo, as well as other research sites including Meritcare Eating Disorders Clinic and regional health-care systems.