This paper is Melissa DelBello's contribution to The Balanced Mind Foundation's series, Translation of the Scientific Evolution of Pediatric Bipolar Disorder.  The series presents the leading researchers' contribution to the field.  It describes the programmatic approach and direction of the labs, the seminal questions which drive their research, a listing of their most important findings and a summary of how their work impacts the field.  The Balanced Mind Foundation is very grateful to Dr. DelBello for sharing her vision with our readers.