My name is Anthony Cuozzo and I am a PhD candidate in Biomedical Sciences at the ETSU Quillen College of Medicine, specializing in behavioral neuroscience and neuropharmacology. My research focuses on uncovering the neurobiological mechanisms that underlie comorbid nicotine use and psychosis, using a heritable rodent model of dopamine dysregulation. I’m particularly interested in how modulation of mGlu5, A2A, and D2 receptor systems affects drug reward, relapse vulnerability, and sensorimotor gating deficits.

With a strong foundation in behavioral assays, histological analyses, and a deep familairity of mechanisms underlying psychosis I aim to identify novel therapeutic targets to mitigate comorbid nicotine addiction and improve symptomology in psychosis. My work has been recognized through multiple research awards and travel grants, and I've presented at several national conferences including the Society for Neuroscience and Behavior, Biology, and Chemistry (BBC) meetings.

Beyond the lab, I've previously served as president of the ETSU Biomedical Science Graduate Student Association and am currently a graduate representative on the ETSU Research Strategic Plan Task Force. I remain committed to advancing mental health and addiction research as well as mentoring the next generation of scientists.