Specialties: Behavioral and Systems Neuroscience, Optogenetics, Drug AddictionResearch: I have an extensive background researching the neurobiology of addictive behavior across multiple levels of analysis (behavioral, systems, cellular/molecular) and am familiar with a variety of experimental techniques. My research has been greatly expanded through my work in the MnDRIVE Optogenetics Core and ITN Mouse Behavior Core and I now assist in a wide variety of research areas (e.g., motor, cognitive, pain, affective, and social function) and disease states (e.g., depression/anxiety, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, Schizophrenia, obesity, hypertension, ataxia, spinal cord injury). This work utilizes my strengths in optogenetic and behavior testing in rodents to facilitate research discovery and provide high-quality technical and academic support for the scientific community.Accomplishments: I am author on 24 publications in respected scientific journals and my research has been presented at both national and international conferences. I am Co-investigator on 4 grants and have received 20 different honors and awards, including the American Legion Brain Science Award, a Regent's Scholarship, and several Travel Awards.Activities:My scientific public speaking engagements involve presenting research at scientific conferences, giving departmental seminars, serving as course instructor, lecturing in undergraduate and graduate level courses, and performing demonstrations for high school students, teachers, and the general public. I have additional teaching experience through one-on-one student mentoring and the training of employees and research core users. Community Outreach: Includes involvement in the Parent Advisory Council Board (Adams Elementary), Community Curriculum Advisory Committee (Anoka-Hennepin school district), Citizen Advisory Committee (Coon Creek Watershed District), Creation Cares Ministry (Faith Lutheran Church), Adopt-a-drain (Coon Rapids), Salt Watch Monitoring (Izaak Walton League of America), Green Champion program (UT Southwestern), Brain Awareness Week, MN State Brain Bee, Brain Booth at the MN State Fair, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), the American Heart Association (AHA), and volunteering in church and other local community projects.