Dr. Leventhal is principal investigator of a research program that has received $60M in grants addressing: (1) youth use of tobacco, cannabis, and opioids; (2) health disparities in addiction; (3) science to inform public policies for regulating tobacco and other addictive consumer products; and (4) cancer and cardiovascular disease prevention. He has (co-)authored over 400 peer-reviewed scientific articles, including publications in JAMA, New England Journal of Medicine, and other widely-disseminated journals. Research led by Dr. Leventhal and his collaborators have informed numerous federal and global policies to protect youth from the dangers of tobacco and nicotine. His work has been covered the Associated Press, NBC Nightly News, New York Times, and other media outlets. In addition to science and academic administration leadership, Dr. Leventhal is an active mentor and educator to early-career professionals across the spectrum from high school students to faculty. He is an elected fellow of the American Academy of Health Behavior and American Psychological Association and recipient of awards for contributions to science and mentoring, including the American Psychological Foundation Gold Medal Award for Impact in Psychology.
Dr. Leventhal is active in translating addiction science to federal and global policy actions, having served in roles for the US Surgeon General Report Series, US Food and Drug Administration, White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, National Academy of Science, Engineering and Medicine, and World Health Organization. His personal interests include running, playing guitar, watching football, and spending time with his wonderful wife and two daughters.