A MacArthur Foundation “genius” grant has been awarded to a researcher whose work on the overdose crisis reveals critical insights that could finally address America’s devastating drug epidemic.

Story Highlights

• UNC researcher Nabarun Dasgupta receives prestigious MacArthur “genius” grant for overdose crisis work
• Recognition highlights urgent need to address America’s spiraling drug death epidemic
• Research focuses on understanding and reducing overdose deaths across the United States

MacArthur Foundation Recognizes Overdose Crisis Research

Nabarun Dasgupta, a researcher at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, has been selected as a MacArthur Foundation Fellow for his groundbreaking work addressing the U.S. overdose crisis. The prestigious award, commonly known as a “genius” grant, recognizes individuals demonstrating exceptional creativity and potential for significant contributions to society. Dasgupta’s selection underscores the critical importance of understanding and combating America’s ongoing drug epidemic.

NPR: Scientist on front lines of overdose crisis receives MacArthur 'genius' award https://t.co/z6bKqRlm1C

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Addressing America’s Drug Death Emergency

The overdose crisis represents one of the most pressing public health challenges facing American families and communities today. Drug overdose deaths have claimed hundreds of thousands of lives over the past decade, devastating families across all demographic lines and economic backgrounds. Dasgupta’s research aims to develop evidence-based strategies to reduce these preventable deaths and provide communities with tools to protect their most vulnerable members.

Research Impact on Public Health Policy

The MacArthur Fellowship provides recipients with $800,000 over five years to pursue their work without restrictions, allowing for innovative approaches to complex problems. This recognition of Dasgupta’s research comes at a time when American communities desperately need effective solutions to combat rising overdose rates. His work represents a commitment to protecting American lives through scientific rigor rather than failed policy approaches that have characterized previous administrations’ handling of the crisis.

The fellowship’s support for overdose prevention research aligns with broader conservative principles emphasizing the importance of protecting American families and communities. By focusing on understanding the root causes and developing practical interventions, this research offers hope for communities that have been ravaged by drug-related deaths and the associated social breakdown that follows.

Sources:

https://www.npr.org/2025/10/08/nx-s1-5564684/macarthur-overdose-scientist-dasgupta