These human genetic mutations were integrated into mouse DNA to create strains of mice (transgenic animal models) that are being used worldwide to develop new drug treatments for Alzheimer's disease.

[10][11][12] Mullan and Crawford wanted to name the institute after Mr. Roskamp and his family in recognition of their extensive contributions to the advancement of scientific research to find new treatments for neurological and psychiatric disorders.

[13][14] In the mission statement of the Institute Mullan chose the phrase "to reduce the burden of human suffering" in reference to the mental and physical devastation that such conditions as Alzheimer's cause.

The institute is a multicultural multi-ethnic research environment combining a wide variety of expertise in molecular and cell biology, genetics, proteomics, lipidomics, medicinal chemistry, drug discovery and development.

Under the directorships of Mullan and Crawford the Roskamp Institute focuses on discovering new treatments for Alzheimer's disease,[12] traumatic brain injury,[15] multiple sclerosis,[16] Gulf War illness[17] and other central nervous system disorders.