Matthew R
- Research Program Mentor
PhD at University of Pittsburgh
Expertise
Learning and memory, behavioral neuroscience, neurobiology of disease, synaptic plasticity
Bio
I am a postdoctoral fellow at Rutgers University in Piscataway, New Jersey. I have over 10 years of research experience in neuroscience, with specialties in neuropharmacology, behavioral neuroscience, psychiatric disorders, and synaptic plasticity. I completed my PhD in neuroscience from the University of Pittsburgh in 2018, where my thesis investigated a role of a novel circuit in the brain that we found played a role in reducing behaviors linked to drug use. I have always taken an active role in the broader scientific community by mentoring younger scientists and participating in outreach events such as judging local science fairs. Outside of the lab, I enjoy spending time with my family, including my 8 year old Shih Tzu, traveling to new places, and making and eating good food.Project ideas
Project ideas are meant to help inspire student thinking about their own project. Students are in the driver seat of their research and are free to use any or none of the ideas shared by their mentors.
Review paper on recent developments in neuropsychiatric therapeutics
Student will investigate the advances in neurospsychiatric behavioral therapeutics, including preclinical animal research and clinical findings in humans. Some topics may include deep brain stimulation, transcranial magnetic stimulation, and neuropharmacological approaches.
Teaching experience
During graduate school I participated in formal teaching, as a teaching assistant for two semesters. One course was Introduction to Neuroscience and the second was the more specialized higher-level course focused on Synaptic Plasticity. This didactic experience involved leading seminars and short discussion/review sessions, as well as instructing students through relevant scientific literature. I also have experience in less formal situations in mentoring more junior members of my lab, both undergraduates and graduate students. I was involved in teaching techniques, helping with manuscript preparation, and discussing general career advice and support.Credentials
Work experience
Rutgers University (2018 - Current)
Postdoctoral FellowEducation
University of Connecticut
BS Bachelor of Science (2008)
Physiology and NeurobiologyUniversity of Hartford
MS Master of Science (2011)
NeuroscienceUniversity of Pittsburgh
PhD Doctor of Philosophy (2018)
Neuropharmacology/Behavioral Neuroscience