My research uses electrophysiological and Ca2+ imaging techniques to investigate mechanisms of synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus and striatum. In particular, we have focused on mechanisms of paired pulse facilitation, synaptic frequency filtering, and the regulation of residual Ca2+ in presynaptic terminals
Short term synaptic plasticity plays an important role in nervous system signaling. My research has focused on paired pulse facilitation and frequency filtering at synapses in the striatum and hippocampus. My lab uses techniques of calcium imaging, whole cell patch clamping, and field potential recording to investigate pre- and postsynaptic cellular mechanisms responsible for these forms of plasticity.
Teaching
teaching overview
BIOM 509 Introduction to Neurobiology Course director and instructor for electrophysiology sections
BIOM 537 Ion Channels Course director and instructor
BIOM 533 Neurophysiology/Neuroanatomy Co-director and instructor for neurophysiology section
Phase I Neuroscience Instructor for electrophysiology and neurophysiology and small group tutor