Jennifer Silvers

Dr. Jennifer Silvers is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of California, Los Angeles, affiliated with the College of Life Sciences. She directs the Social Affective Neuroscience and Development (SAND) Lab, focusing on emotional and physical health in youth, particularly how social ties influence neurobiological mechanisms of emotion regulation, learning, and decision-making.

• Academic Affiliation: Assistant Professor, UCLA Psychology Department
• Research Focus: Developmental neuroscience, emotion regulation, social influences on neurobiology
• Key Grants: NSF CAREER Award

Her research examines age-related differences in emotion regulation, early adversity impacts, and neurodevelopmental pathways to resilience. Current work explores inflammation, pubertal timing, and social support systems through neuroimaging and behavioral studies.

Recent publications highlight trends in developmental affective neuroscience, emphasizing neural networks (amygdala, prefrontal cortex), social decision-making, and adaptive responses to adversity across adolescence. Collaborations span institutions like the University of Chicago and Pomona College.

• Scientific Awards:
  • NSF CAREER Award
  • Wendell Jeffrey and Bernice Wenzel Term Chair in Developmental Neuroscience

The SAND Lab, based at UCLA’s Franz Hall, fosters transparency and collaboration while prioritizing ethical science and participant welfare. Her team investigates neurodevelopmental mechanisms to improve interventions for youth with diverse backgrounds.