https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0360-8367
Overview
We study neural circuits in the rodent cerebellum involved with motor timing, coordination, and learning. Our approaches include high-speed multiphoton imaging from cerebellar neurons in vivo during behavior, extracellular and intracellular electrophysiology in vivo as well as in acute brain slices, and anatomical techniques such as cell type-specific viral labeling to identify functional circuit pathways that connect the cerebellum with other brain regions.
Current Appointments & Affiliations
Associate Professor of Neurobiology
·
2020 - Present
Neurobiology,
Basic Science Departments
Faculty Network Member of the Duke Institute for Brain Sciences
·
2013 - Present
Duke Institute for Brain Sciences,
University Institutes and Centers
Recent Publications
Climbing fibres recruit disinhibition to enhance Purkinje cell calcium signals.
Journal Article Nature · March 18, 2026 Climbing fibre (CF) inputs to Purkinje cells (PCs) instruct plasticity and learning in the cerebellum1-3. Paradoxically, CFs also excite molecular layer interneurons (MLIs)4,5, a cell type that inhibits PCs and can restrict plasticity and learning6,7. Howe ... Full text Open Access Link to item CiteConsensus Paper: Models of Cerebellar Functions.
Journal Article Cerebellum · February 9, 2026 For a long time, from the nineteenth century to most of the twentieth century, the cerebellum was thought to be an organ that regulates movement. Towards the end of the twentieth century, the brain functions associated with the cerebellum began to extend b ... Full text Link to item CiteASTN2 in ASD and neurodevelopmental disorders.
Chapter · 2026 This chapter reviews the role of Astrotactin 2 (ASTN2) in cerebellar development and its implications for neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly autism spectrum disorder (ASD). ASTN2 is identified as a critical gene influencing the function of the cere ... Full text Link to item CiteRecent Grants
The role of cell-type specific circuits for inhibition and disinhibition in cerebellar learning and behavior
ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke · 2025 - 2030Neurobiology Training Program
Inst. Training Prgm or CMEMentor · Awarded by National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke · 2024 - 2029Cerebellar circuits for reward-based learning
ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke · 2022 - 2027View All Grants
Education
Oregon Health and Science University ·
2005
Ph.D.