Research in our lab employs a multidisciplinary approach to pursue two major aims: 1) to define the molecular, anatomical, and functional distinctions of neuronal subpopulations in the nervous system that control specific behaviors; and 2) to identify and characterize genes that direct the assembly and maintenance of neural circuits. These general issues are examined through the analysis of local and long-range circuits in subcortical brain centers important for coordination and refinement of movement, motor learning, and complex motivated behaviors using genetic and viral circuit tracing, neural manipulations, imaging and behavioral approaches in mice.

Funding: NIH, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, The Brain Initiative, National Institute on Aging; Foundation for Prader-Willi Research.