We bring field biology to the laboratory
We take a reductionist approach to understanding the cellular mechanisms that underlie naturalistic behavior. Mice display complex social organization and, as a model organism of neuroscience, provide an opportunity to understand behavior at the molecular level. We study various strains of mice in a setting where they are free to behave and interact according to their own rules of interaction, while holding environmental conditions constant. Rigorously quantifying behaviors such as movement, interaction, and competition serves as a point of entry for manipulation-based experiments to identify mechanisms underlying these ethologically relevant behaviors.
Behavioral paradigms to understand the organization of social behavior
Social networks and hierarchies are primarily built from one-on-one interactions over days and weeks. We use behavioral analysis to understand how relationships become more meaningful over time.
Neural anatomy & recording to identify circuits relevant to behavior
We are mapping the connectivity, molecular identity, and activity patterns of circuits in the brain that are important for organized social relationships, such as aggression and pro-social behavior.
Manipulation-based experiments to identify functional circuitry
To understand the association between neural activity and the behavior of freely moving animals in a group setting, we use molecular tools that can activate and inhibit specific populations of neurons.