My Research

My research focuses on the neurobiological mechanisms that are implicated in and perpetuate drug addiction, particularly to psychostimulants. More specifically, the bulk of my research focuses on understanding how disruptions in glutamatergic signaling can result in increases in drug cravings and relapse. By understanding these mechanisms, I aim to find and develop therapeutics to attenuate substance use and relapse.

I am very interested in studying the neurobiological basis of other neuropsychiatric illnesses.  My research employs a combination of behavioral (i.e. operant self-administration, locomotor sensitization) and molecular techniques (Western Blot, ELISA, chromogenic and fluorescent immunohistochemistry).