ABOUT ME

Biography

My research is primarily focused on the field of behavioural neuroscience. I examine the central nervous systems regulation of food, fluid and nutrient intake. I also examine the effects of macro and micro nutrients on the brain and behaviour.

Education

• • PhD, Nutritional Neuroscience, Deakin University, 2011
  • MBSc, Behavioural Neuroscience, La Trobe University, 2008
  • BBSc (Hons), Behavioural Science, La Trobe University, 2003

RESEARCH

Research Goals

• • • The homeostatic regulation of ingestive behaviour and body weight regulation
    • The transport of adiposity signals across the blood brain barrier
    • The cardiovascular effects of dietary fatty acids and their metabolites
    • The role of eicosanoids in the stress response

Research in Detail

The primary goals of my lab are (1) to examine the mechanisms underlying obesity and (2) to examine how dietary changes alter behaviour. The lab uses both in vivo and in vitro models to examine transport of adiposity signals across the blood brain barrier. Techniques utilized by the lab include a range of genetic models, behavioural tests, small animal surgery and molecular approaches.

Research Grants

• • • CJ Martin fellowship, 2011-2015, The renin-angiotensin system and obesity

Current Student Projects (PhD and Honours)

The cyclooxygenase-eicosanoid pathway and stress-induced spatial learning deficits.

Supervision Opportunities/Areas

Physiological factors altering transport of the adiposity signal insulin into the central nervous system.

The effect of dietary fatty acids and eicosanoid inhibition on the stress response.

What are the causal links between angiotensin, obesity and inflammation?

Advice for prospective students

If you are interested in potential honours of higher degree projects, or if you would like to gain some experience in a neuroscience lab, email me to discuss the options available to you.

TEACHING & OUTREACH

Courses I teach

PSYC1011 - Psychology 1B

Professional affiliations and service positions

Society for the Study of Ingestive Behavior.

International Society for the Study of Fatty Acids and Lipids.

The Endocrine Society.

American Heart Association.

Neuroendocrinology Australasia.

AWARDS & ACHIEVEMENTS

2009 - Society for the Study of Ingestive Behavior, New Investigator Travel Award.

2012 - International Society for the Study of Fatty Acids and Lipids (ISSFAL), New Investigator Award.