About The Lab
The primary research aim of the Mendez Laboratory is to elucidate the signals and circuits of the brain that become dysregulated following repeated exposure to rewards and how these changes ultimately contribute to changes in motivational, hedonic, and cognitive processes. Recent experiments have investigated aberrant reward seeking and taking behaviors, impaired economic cost-benefit decision making, and how brain reward systems interact with metabolic mechanisms to promote feeding disorders and obesity. These processes are relevant to a myriad of psychiatric disorders, with particularly strong implications for addiction. Dr. Mendez's research team investigates these conditions by utilizing experimental methods in biology, pharmacology, behavior, genetics, and neurochemistry. A priority for The Mendez Lab is to ensure excellence in research training for all trainees involved. The Mendez Laboratory works to maintain a productive and collaborative research environment, with a focus on enhancing student research opportunities.
The Mendez Lab Team
