The fund that now supports the George Winokur Psychiatry Professorship was established in 1990 with gifts to the UI Foundation from Winokur's family, friends and colleagues to honor his leadership as head of psychiatry at the UI from 1971 to 1990. Winokur, who died in 1996, was internationally recognized for his research in mood disorders and alcohol and substance abuse. He made major contributions by finding a link between genetics and manic depression, and describing the role of family history and genetic factors in alcoholism.

Coryell, who has been a UI faculty member since 1978, studies the natural course and prognosis of mood disorders, including panic disorder and manic depressive illness (also known as bipolar disorder). Coryell's findings, which have been published widely, have helped physicians appropriately treat patients during the course of their illnesses. Coryell earned a medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta and completed a residency in psychiatry at Washington University in St. Louis.

"Dr. Coryell's work has greatly advanced our understanding of mood disorders, and he has consistently published in the top journals in psychiatry," said Robert G. Robinson, M.D., UI head of psychiatry and the Paul W. Penningroth Professor of Psychiatry. "We are delighted that he has been appointed to the George Winokur Psychiatry Professorship. It is a fitting honor and wonderful opportunity for Dr. Coryell."

The previous five-year Winokur professorship was held by Raymond Crowe, M.D., professor of psychiatry, whose research includes genetic linkage studies to search for genes for panic disorder, depression, schizophrenia and alcoholism.

"We are fortunate to have such highly qualified experts in the UI Department of Psychiatry who will carry on the standard of excellence set by Dr. Winokur in both clinical care and scholarship," Robinson added.

For more information:

Department of Psychiatry