Dr. Allen received his Ph.D. in Physiology & Biophysics from the University of Illinois-College of Medicine where he investigated the molecular pharmacology and cellular signaling of proteins in cells located in the nervous system. He completed post-doctoral training at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill where he studied neuronal signaling of endogenous chemicals including serotonin and dopamine. He also studied the actions of antipsychotic drugs on brain cells. Most recently, John was Principal Scientist and Laboratory Head at Pfizer Neuroscience, where he successfully advanced the development of a type of treatment comprised of small molecules for clinical study and eventually treatment in humans. In his current position as Assistant Professor with the Department of Pharmacology at the University of Texas Medical Branch, John continues his studies researching possible treatment drugs for a spectrum of brain associated ailments.