Anna Drillen

Education

• BA in Neuroscience and Psychology, Emmanuel College MA

Interests

My research interests involve exploring gene-environment interactions and their effects on behavior, particularly in the context of psychiatric disorders. I am interested in using both computational methods and electrophysiology to investigate the mechanisms that underlie these interactions.

Biography

I am a neuroscience research assistant with an interest in exploring gene-environment interactions. My research has focused on understanding the role of psychiatric risk gene Ankyrin 3 (ANK3), in modulating stress susceptibility and behaviors related to bipolar disorder and alcohol use disorder. During my research, I investigated the molecular mechanisms underlying ANK3 disruption, including its effects on glucocorticoid receptor availability and the HPA axis. I plan to pursue a PhD to deepen my understanding of the neurobiological mechanisms behind neurological disorders and contribute to the development of more effective treatments, ultimately establishing my own laboratory to mentor future scientists and advance this important area of research!