Behavioral Neuroscience is the study of the neurobiological processes that give rise to our cognition and behavior. The goal of Behavioral Neuroscience research at USD is to understand how brain structures, systems and chemicals function in both humans and non-human animals. In our department, Behavioral Neuroscience research is conducted with both humans and non-human animal models and employs techniques including psychopharmacology, brain lesions, genetics, physiological manipulations and cognitive and behavioral testing in order to understand the neural and biological bases of behavior.
This lab explores the biological mechanisms of memory behavior and cognition using rodents as a model system. We investigate memory function and dysfunction using behavioral tasks combined with brain-based manipulations and detailed histological processing and analyses. We are particularly interested in understanding how the brain processes the critical features of time and space in memory formation and retrieval. For more information, please visit the Hales Lab website.
How to apply
Dr. Hales is taking students based on project availability. Please email Dr. Hales jhales@sandiego.edu for more information or stop by her office hours in SH 122.
Why do organisms approach pleasant stimuli, like food, and avoid negative/aversive stimuli, like predators? What brain circuits underlie disorders of motivation, such as substance use disorder? How do experiences during development, such as drug use in adolescence, alter neurobiology and lead to lasting changes in motivation? In this lab, we employ cutting-edge neuroscience technologies and behavioral models to address such questions using rat subjects.
How to apply
Please visit the Wenzel Lab website for more information and to apply.
The Bonds Lab is focused on investigating the mechanisms which determine neural stem cell fate. Oligodendrogenesis (i.e., formation of new myelinating oligodendrocytes) is an essential cellular mechanism by which the adult brain can regenerate myelin and repair axons in demyelinating diseases, such as MS or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Myelin can be regenerated by either mature oligodendrocytes in the surrounding area or by newly formed oligodendrocytes produced and recruited in response to a demyelinating injury. Oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) and neural stem cells (NSCs) can generate new oligodendrocytes which can support remyelination. Thus, understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms which influence the neural environment to promote OPC survival and differentiation, and designate which neural cell type these NSCs mature and develop into is of great interest for treating MS and other neurodegenerative diseases. To this end, the Bonds Lab will focus on (1) defining the signaling pathways that regulate oligodendrogenesis in the neurogenic regions of the brain and (2) measure the impact of mitochondria in this process using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs).
How to apply
Dr. Bonds is taking students based on project availability. To state your interest in joining the lab, please fill out this form. You are also encouraged to email Dr. Bonds to let her know that you have completed the form at jbonds-09@sandiego.edu