Current Research Interests

Broadly, my current research focuses on understanding the neurochemical encoding of appetite and feeding behavior. In particular, my research is directed towards discerning the signaling role that the hypothalamic neuropeptide orexin A plays in feeding behavior. Orexin A augments both appetite and arousal; my research thesis focuses on whether orexin A stimulation of feeding is secondary to enhanced arousal. I employ various laboratory techniques to answer this question including: immunohistochemistry, histology, intracranial cannula implantation, operant studies, as well as open field activity monitoring. Honors and Award