
PhD (Neuroscience), Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, 2016
Bachelor of Science (Zoology) Honours Class I, The University of Queensland, 2007
Bachelor of Arts (Psychology), The University of Queensland, 2006
I am a behavioural neuroscientist interested in cognitive processes that go awry in neuropsychiatric disorders. Using animal models I study the brain circuits underlying attention, learning and decision-making. We use sophisticated behavioural paradigms to dissect the psychological mechanisms underlying complex behaviour, in combination with various tools including chemogenetics, optogenetics and pharmacology to manipulate brain circuits. I am particularly interested in translational preclinical mental health research to bridge the bench to bedside gap, with my current project focused on understanding impulsive and compulsive responding in disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and schizophrenia.
2023 BBRF NARSAD Young Investigator Grant
2021-2023 UNSW Safety Net Fellowship
2021 UNSW Science Covid-19 Strategic Support Grant
2017-2021 NHMRC CJ Martin Early Career Fellowship
2019 Goldstar Award, UNSW Faculty of Science
2021: 1st Prize, Postdoc presentation, Stay Connected Neuro
2019: IBNS Travel Award
2018: Charles Slater Travel Award, University of Cambridge
2018: IBRO International Travel Grant
2018: FENS-IBRO/PERC Travel Grant
2017: Guarantors of Brain Travel Grant
2015-2016: QBI Top-up Scholarship, QBI, The University of Queensland
2014: Best Short Talk Prize, QBI Graduate Student Symposium
2014: SfN Chapter Travel Award, Society for Neuroscience
2014: ANS Student Travel Award, Australian Neuroscience Society
2013: Runner-up and People’s Choice Award, 3-Minute Thesis (3MT) Competition, QBI
2013: ANS Student Travel Award, Australian Neuroscience Society
2012: ATSE Young Science Ambassador Award, Australian Academy of Technological Science and Engineering
2012: Istvan Tork Student Oral Prize, Australian Neuroscience Society
2012-2016: Australian Postgraduate Award, Australian Government
2012-2015: Smart Futures PhD Scholarship Award, Queensland Government
For publications see my Google Scholar page
Various activities including Young Science Ambassador for Wonders of Science Program in schools by ATSE; public demonstrations at events such as BRAINFest and university open days, and lab tours and demonstrations for visitors from schools (NYSF, Brain Bee Competition) and university events. I am a 2021 UNSW Women in Math and Science Champion.
Media interviews:
Neuroscience of habits: ABC Science
Breaking bad habits: Sunrise, Channel 7
My Teaching