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GilR89p SeaLife72

A Molecular and Integrative Physiology Lab


Computational Biology, Ion Channels, Learning and Memory, Neurobiology, Pattern Formation, Sensory Processing


Our research is aimed at how animals organize their behavior by integrating motivation, experience and sensation. Our lab analyzes decision-making in behavioral expression and the underlying neural network circuitry. We analyze interactions of neural networks and the regulation of network activity by cell signalling pathways involving neuromodulatory messengers and second messenger pathways. We use the carnivorous marine snail Pleurobranchaea californica as a model system, taking advantage of the simple behavior and brain that underlie its success as a generalized predator. A corollary activity emerging from the behavioral and physiological work is the development of software and hardware platforms for autonomous cost-benefit decision-making and robotics.