Exploring the Neural Bases of Motivation

In the Parekh lab, we combine systems neuroscience approaches to uncover how the brain encodes information relevant for adaptive behaviors such as cost-benefit decision making and reward-seeking. We have several exciting projects underway to delineate the neural circuits underlying these processes in healthy and compromised states such as chronic stress exposure, a significant risk factor for disease. Furthermore, we aim to uncover the neural and genetic basis for individual differences in stress vulnerability to inform novel targets in the treatment of motivational deficits.

We are grateful for funding support from the University of Texas System Rising STARs Program, National Institute of Mental Health and the Brain and Behavior Research Foundation.