Ana Ribeiro

Dr. Ana Ribeiro is a Professor of Biology at Mount Saint Vincent University, specializing in neuroendocrinology and behavioral biology. Her research focuses on hormonal regulation of behavior, sleep disorders, and the mechanisms by which organisms adapt to environmental changes. She holds a PhD from Fordham University, along with an MS and BA from Fordham and Western Connecticut State University, respectively.

Research Interests:

• Neural mechanisms of behavioral arousal and sleep regulation
• Estrogen's role in promoting behavioral arousal and maternal care
• Hormonal imbalances and obesity
• Circadian rhythms and food anticipation

Publications: Her work spans 12+ peer-reviewed articles between 2009–2022, with recent emphasis on estrogen receptor silencing, sleep-arousal relationships, and STEM education equity. Notable contributions include studies on maternal behavior in mice and strategies to improve retention of underrepresented students in STEM.

Awards:

• National Research Service Award from the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (2012)

Teaching: Teaches foundational biology courses (BIOL 111/112, Systemic Physiology) and advanced topics like Neurobiology. Supervises undergraduate research through BIOL 310/410 and independent studies.