In 2007, Richard Nakamura, Ph.D., became the first Asian American scientific director of the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) serving until 2011. Between 1997 and 2007, he served as the institute’s deputy director.

While at NIMH, he also held other positions, including associate director for science policy and program planning; chief of the Behavioral and Integrative Neuroscience Research Branch; and coordinator of the former Alcohol, Drug Abuse, and Mental Health Administration Office of Animal Research Issues.

During his time at NIMH, he earned the prestigious Presidential Rank Award and other leadership awards for his extraordinary efforts.