I have two current research interests. I examine how higher-order functions such as attention, emotion, and learning are processed by the brain and how these processes are altered by disease or pathology. Progress in these experiments will help identify novel therapeutic approaches for a wide variety of diseases (e.g., tinnitus, psychiatric disorders).

My second set of experiments examines how the gut microbiota influences brain function. Prior experiments in this field have shown that the organisms in the gut can directly affect brain activity. They can have either positive or negative effects depending on which microorganisms are prominent. By altering diet, we can promote the growth of the "good" microorganisms, and thus directly influence specific circuits within the brain. Progress in this set of experiments may help us utilize food as a therapy for a variety of psychiatric and mood disorders.