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Rebecca Chung-Hui Yang

Associate Professor of Neurobiology
Neurobiology
Box 3209, Durham, NC 27710
Bryan Research Building, 311 Research Drive Room 427E, Durham, NC 27710

Overview


Our lab is interested in understanding the neural basis of simple decision-making processes.  We use Drosophila egg-laying site selection as our model system.  To understand how the Drosophila brain assesses and ranks the values of egg-laying options, we use a combined approach that includes high-throughput optogenetics-based behavioral screen, automated (machine vision) behavioral tracking of single animals, molecular genetic tools to identify critical circuit components, and calcium imaging and anatomical tracing techniques to determine the physical and functional connectivity of identified circuit components.  

Current Appointments & Affiliations


Associate Professor of Neurobiology · 2016 - Present Neurobiology, Basic Science Departments

Recent Publications


Insect neurobiology: Oviposition crowd control.

Journal Article Curr Biol · January 8, 2024 A new study examines how Helicoverpa armigera females detect chemicals released by conspecific eggs in order to avoid laying more eggs on the same substrate. This work opens new avenues for basic research inquiries and offers a potential strategy for contr ... Full text Link to item Cite

A functional division of Drosophila sweet taste neurons that is value-based and task-specific.

Journal Article Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A · January 18, 2022 Sucrose is an attractive feeding substance and a positive reinforcer for Drosophila But Drosophila females have been shown to robustly reject a sucrose-containing option for egg-laying when given a choice between a plain and a sucrose-containing option in ... Full text Link to item Cite

A neuropeptidergic circuit gates selective escape behavior of Drosophila larvae.

Journal Article Curr Biol · January 10, 2022 Animals display selective escape behaviors when faced with environmental threats. Selection of the appropriate response by the underlying neuronal network is key to maximizing chances of survival, yet the underlying network mechanisms are so far not fully ... Full text Link to item Cite
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Recent Grants


Neurobiology Training Program

Inst. Training Prgm or CMEMentor · Awarded by National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke · 2024 - 2029

Basic predoctoral training in neuroscience

Inst. Training Prgm or CMETraining Faculty · Awarded by National Institutes of Health · 1992 - 2018

Genetic Dissection of an Avoidance Circuit in Drosophila

ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by National Institutes of Health · 2012 - 2018

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Education, Training & Certifications


Stanford University · 2002 Ph.D.

External Links


Yang Lab