The Neurophysiology and Behavior Laboratory investigates the neurobiological mechanisms of behavior. A major goal in neuroscience is to understand how the brain processes salient environmental stimuli and promotes behavioral adaptation. Under some circumstances (i.e. stress) changes in neuronal activity generate mal-adaptive behavior and ultimately the development of psychiatric disorders such as drug addiction. Our challenge is to identify how and when neuronal changes are translated into pathological behavior.

The Neurophysiology and Behavior Lab is located in the Thad Cochran Research Center on campus (animal facility). We utilize in vivo electrophysiology and pharmacology to track the neuronal correlates of behavior.