Our research is focused on the structure and function of social behavior circuitry in the brain. Of particular interest are variations in structure and function that produce individual, sex, species and seasonal differences in behavior.
Our work has focused on the nonapeptides vasotocin and mesotocin, which are homologues of the mammalian neuropeptides vasopressin and oxytocin.
We are currently investigating whether VIP circuits may be variably important for grouping behavior, aggression, pair bonding, social anxiety and parental care in the gregarious zebra finch.
Research Interests
