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Kaitlyn Petersen

  • Graduate Student Researcher

Outside of the lab, I like to snuggle with my dog, Hazel. I also enjoy cooking and trying out new restaurants and breweries in the city.

    Education & Training

  • B.S. Neuroscience from Baylor University
Research Interests

I use optogenetics to manipulate neuronal firing in mice and then perform behavioral assays related to mood. Other molecular techniques include RNAseq, qPCR, and immunohistochemistry.

My main project is focused on the association between mood disorders and circadian rhythm disruption. I manipulate molecular rhythms in the mouse suprachiasmatic nucleus using optogenetics and determine the behavioral and molecular effects.

I am also studying the baseline relationship between circadian rhythms in various regions of the brain and the body.