Matthew Wanat

Matthew Wanat, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor and Graduate Advisor of Record in the Department of Neuroscience, Developmental and Regenerative Biology at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), within the College of Sciences. His research lab investigates the neurobiological mechanisms underlying motivated behavior, with a focus on drug addiction, stress, learning, and memory.

Research Interests: The Wanat Lab explores how drugs of abuse and stress alter neural circuits involved in motivation and decision-making. Using techniques such as optogenetics, chemogenetics, fiber photometry, fast-scan cyclic voltammetry, and electrophysiology, the lab studies dopamine signaling dynamics in brain regions like the striatum. Their work aims to identify and reverse maladaptive neural changes associated with psychiatric disorders, particularly addiction.

The lab has contributed to key findings on how effort influences dopamine release in response to drug rewards and has developed novel strategies to reduce cocaine intake by targeting midbrain astrocytes. These studies have been highlighted in press releases and scientific conferences, indicating active and impactful research.

Scientific Awards and Recognition: Dr. Wanat’s trainees have received numerous accolades, including multiple NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP) awards, poster prizes at national conferences like ABRCMS, and recognition in pitch competitions. These awards reflect the strength of his mentorship and the quality of research conducted in his lab.

Advising and Mentoring: Dr. Wanat has mentored a diverse group of students and postdoctoral researchers, many of whom have gone on to receive prestigious fellowships and awards. His lab supports undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral scholars, fostering a strong training environment in neuroscience. Mentees include Angelica Ramos, Brandon Garcia, Merridee Lefner, Claire Stelly, and others who have presented at national meetings and secured competitive funding.

Labs and Research Teams: The Wanat Lab, also known as the Neurobiology of Motivated Behavior lab, is an active research group at UTSA. It is equipped with state-of-the-art neuroscientific tools and focuses on integrating behavioral models with neurochemical and electrophysiological recordings. The team includes graduate students, undergraduates, and postdoctoral fellows working collaboratively on projects related to dopamine, stress, and addiction.