We are interested in how individual differences in our neural circuits compel different types of interaction with the world.

We are particularly interested in the neural circuits driving the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is at the heart of addiction, depression, Parkinson’s Disease and many other neuropsychiatric disorders.

Individual differences in neural circuits that regulate dopamine release can lead to different styles of learning and change an individual’s susceptibility to disorders.

By understanding the nuances of dopamine circuit function, our research can help tailor clinical treatments and interventions to better fit individual needs.

The Lerner Lab uses behavioral studies - especially assays of reinforcement learning and motivation - in combination with optogenetics, fiber photometry, imaging, electrophysiology, viral-mediated circuit tracing, and RNA sequencing approaches to probe the natural range of individual variation in dopamine circuit structure and function and to correlate it with behavior.

Ultimately, we seek to learn what neural circuit principles explain dynamic reward learning and decision-making strategies in response to a changing environment and how we can employ these principles to better treat psychiatric disorders.