Paul Markel

Dr. Paul Markel is an Academic Director and Professor at the School of Psychology, Sociology and Rural Studies, South Dakota State University. He holds a PhD in Psychology from the University of Colorado, Boulder, with postdoctoral training in neuropharmacology and human genetics. His research spans behavior genetics, neuropharmacology, and haptic spatial cognition, with recent studies exploring individual differences in pleasure attainment and happiness. Previously, he held appointments at Boston University, Harvard Medical School, and Limburgs Universitair Centrum in Belgium. His work has addressed schizophrenia genetics, alcohol sensitivity in mice, and rural criminology trends.

Education:

• PhD in Psychology, University of Colorado, Boulder
• MA in Psychology, University of Colorado, Boulder
• BA in Psychology, University of Mary, Bismarck, North Dakota

Research Interests:

• Behavioral and molecular genetics
• Neuropharmacological mechanisms
• Haptic spatial cognition
• Psychology of happiness and well-being
• Alcohol and schizophrenia genetics

Awards & Grants: No explicit awards listed, but his interdisciplinary research has been supported by institutions including the NIMH and collaborations with biotechnology sectors.

Advising & Labs: No advisee list provided, though his work involves collaborations in genetics and rural studies. His office is located in Psychology, Sociology and Rural Studies Room 107.