Education
- PhD, 1991, California Institute of Technology
- BS, 1983, Electrical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Research Summary
Our laboratory studies the neural processes within the hippocampus and neocortex that enable memories to form and persist over time. We use a technique that allows us to simultaneously record the activity of hundreds of individual neurons across multiple brain regions in freely behaving animals. When combined with genetic, pharmacological and behavioral manipulations, these recordings allow us to gain a mechanistic understanding of how animals learn and remember.
Awards
- American Academy of Arts and Sciences, Fellow, 2012
Education
- PhD, 1991, Stanford University
- BSc, 1982, Biology and Biochemistry, Hebrew University, Israel
Research Summary
The property of the brain that allows it to constantly adapt to change is termed plasticity, and is a prominent feature not only of learning and memory in the adult, but also of brain development. Connections between neurons (synapses) that are frequently used become stronger, while those that are unstimulated gradually dwindle away. The Nedivi lab works to identify the cellular mechanisms that underlie the addition and elimination of synaptic connections in response to activity using genetic and in vivo imaging approaches.
Awards
- Elected Member at Large, AAAS, 2019-2023
- Elected Member, Dana Alliance, 2019
- BCS Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching, 2018
- American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), Fellow, 2016
- AFAR Julie Martin Mid-Career Award in Aging Research, 2007 – 2011
- Edgerly Innovation Fund Award, 2006
- Dean’s Education and Student Advising Award, 2003
- NSF Powre Award, 1999
- Alfred P . Sloan Research Fellowship, 1999 – 2001
- Ellison Medical Foundation New Scholar Award, 1997 – 2002
Education
- PhD, 1968, University of California, San Diego
- BS, 1963, Chemistry, Kyoto University
Research Summary
We are interested in the molecular, cellular and neural circuit mechanisms underlying learning and memory in rodents. We generate genetically engineered mice, and analyze them through multiple methods including molecular and cellular biology, electrophysiology, microscopic imaging, optogenetic engineering, and behavioral studies. Ultimately, we aim to detect the effects of our manipulations at multiple levels in the brain — deducing which behaviors or cognitions are causally linked to specific processes and events taking place at the molecular, cellular, and neuronal circuit levels.
Awards
- The Nobel Foundation, Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, 1987
- Albert and Mary Lasker Award in Basic Research, 1987
- National Academy of Sciences, Member, 1986
Education
- PhD, 1994, Baylor College of Medicine; MD, 1997, Baylor College of Medicine
- BS, 1989, Biochemistry, Louisiana State University
Research Summary
Using Drosophila, we study how neurons form synaptic connections, as well as how synapses transmit information and change during learning and memory. We also investigate how alterations in neuronal signaling underlie several neurological diseases, including epilepsy, autism, and Huntington’s Disease. We hope to bridge the gap between the molecular components of the synapse and the physiological responses they mediate.
