During my PhD studies (under Prof. Stafford Lightman) I worked to better understand the neurophysiological importance of circadian rhythms in the brain, and how chronic steroid treatment can desynchronize extra-SCN brain regions from the external circadian cycle, resulting in deficits in learning and memory.

My current work, with Professor Emma Robinson and Dr. Zuner Bortolotto, focusses on understanding the actions of psychedelic drugs in the brain. Recent years have seen a revival in the use of psychedelics in research, and they have been shown to have promise in the treatment of mental health conditions. Their apparent efficacy and speed of action, amongst other factors, could provide advantages when compared with conventional antidepressants. Despite this, little is known about the mechanisms by which psychedelics alter brain function and cause these lasting changes in behaviour.