Sarah M. Clark

Sarah M. Clark is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. Her research focuses on neuroimmune interactions in psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly the role of T cells in behavioral responses to inflammation and stress.

Education

• BS in Biology, University of Toledo (2003)
• PhD in Neuropharmacology, University of Maryland Baltimore (2011)
• Postdoctoral training in Psychoneuroimmunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine (2011-2015)

Research Interests

Clark’s work investigates three core areas: (1) adaptive immune system contributions to stress behaviors, (2) inflammation-depression links, and (3) neuroimmune mechanisms in neurodevelopmental disorders. Using animal models, post-mortem tissue, and clinical studies, she examines cytokine signaling, neurogenesis, and T cell dynamics.

Her publications reveal trends exploring estrogen receptor beta in stress vulnerability, regulatory T cell dysfunction in schizophrenia, and gluten-free dietary interventions for psychiatric symptoms. Key techniques include gene/protein expression analysis and behavioral assessments.

Scientific Awards

• 2023 Ronald J Taylor Endowed Fellowship
• 2022 NARSAD Young Investigator Award
• 2021 Conte Center Pilot Project Award
• 2018 Virginia Huffer Award
• 2003 NIH Neuroscience Training Grant

Labs & Collaborations

Clark leads a translational research lab examining neuroimmune mechanisms in psychiatric disorders. Her work bridges basic immunology with clinical psychiatry through collaborations with neuropharmacology and neurodevelopmental research teams.