Joel Elkes was declared a "Pioneer of Psychopharmacology," at the XXIst CINP Congress in Glasgow in 1998. This prestigious award, one of many he has received, succinctly defines his groundbreaking contributions in laying the foundations for a discipline before even it existed. The papers included in this volume clearly reflect the visionary way in which Elkes firmly established the close integration of basic science and clinical research that are the hallmarks of modern psychopharmacology. A gifted scientist, innovative thinker, and dedicated teacher, his influence on the field has spanned generations. It is as relevant today, as it was half a century ago. His scientific contributions paralleled by a rich artistic talent that finds expression in a sensitive spirit and warm personality that have endeared him to the many students, mentees, and colleagues whose lives he has touched.