I have recently completed my Masters in this lab. The central topic for my thesis was depression however I used a range of different research methods including behavioural, neurobiological and physiological methods.

I am a master’s student studying whether dendritic spines are altered in the serotonin transporter knockout rat model and whether these changes also occur over time, using western blot, qPCR and neuronal culture techniques.

I am originally from Kansas City, Missouri (USA) and went to undergrad at The College of Wooster (very small uni in Ohio). I majored in Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience and worked in several neuroscience labs.

For me, the brain has always been the most intriguing part of the human body. The different theories, not knowing exactly what happens on a physiological level, and the huge number of external factors that influence its function. This gives the brain some sort of mystery.

In addition to cognitive and behavioral neuroscience, I am also interested in clinical psychology, specifically, counseling and therapy, as well as research. When I’m not at Uni, I love to go for a tramp in the bush around Wellington, and grab a beer with friends afterwards.”

“Originally from the Waikato, I moved to Wellington in 2019 to study a masters in cognitive and behavioural neuroscience. I have particular interests in genetics as well as drug effects on the brain and I plan to delve into the relationship between the two for my thesis.”

Michaela is interested in the underlying factors that contribute to neurodevelopmental disorders. Her research targeted the genetic and environmental interactions which underlie Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).

Bart is the principal investigator of Behavioural Neurogenetics Group.

Linda’s doctoral research investigates the effect of an enriched environment on neural structures and empathy-driven social behaviours in Autism Spectrum Disorders.