The career goals I pursue are to make meaningful contributions to the body of scientific knowledge applicable to human health and to teach and train students and fellows to continue this quest. I teach Bioethics and Pharmacology, with emphasis on Neuro and cardiovascular pharmacology. My research studies the pathophysiological mechanisms by which the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) affects the body. An additional focus of my research is the development and application of radioligands for use in receptor and enzyme binding studies. Notable discoveries include the first report of AT1 and AT2 receptor subtype distribution in the brain, providing the radioligand and cultured cells used to clone the AT2 receptor, the first receptor autoradiography of the AT4 receptor subtype, characterization of the mas protein as the angiotensin (1-7) receptor, and identifying the enzyme neurolysin as an additional binding site for angiotensin peptides. Currently my lab studies enzymes of the metabolic pathways of the RAS and involvement of the RAS in cognitive function. I have coauthored more than 180 peer-reviewed scientific articles that can be accessed at www.pubmed.gov by searching for Speth R. In addition, I have academic interests in the subject of misrepresentation and misuse of dietary supplements and drugs, advocating for the humane use of animals in biomedical research and other animal enterprises, and the integration of arts into the sciences.