معرفی
Adam Smith is an Associate Professor in the Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology at the University of Kansas School of Pharmacy. He joined KU in 2016 after completing a postdoctoral fellowship at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). His research focuses on the neurobiological mechanisms underlying social behavior, stress, and pair bonding in prairie voles. Smith’s lab employs techniques such as optogenetics, chemogenetics, and behavioral assays to study neuropeptide circuits like oxytocin and vasopressin.
Education:
- Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Florida State University (2013)
- M.A. in Psychology, University of Nebraska at Omaha (2009)
- B.S. in Psychology, University of Nebraska at Omaha
Research Interests:
Smith’s work explores how neuropeptides regulate social attachment, stress resilience, and mental health disorders. His lab investigates how social loss and stress impact neural circuits, with potential implications for treatments targeting anxiety, depression, and social deficits. Key topics include:
- Neurobiology of pair bond formation
- Social buffering and consoling behavior
- Oxytocin and vasopressin signaling in the hypothalamus
Publications:
Recent work includes studies on oxytocin’s role in stress reduction, vasopressinergic circuitry, and the neurobiological effects of social loss. His research highlights translational applications for mental health therapies.
Labs/Teams:
Smith Lab at KU focuses on behavioral pharmacology and neuroscience, training students in techniques like microdialysis, viral neuronal tracing, and animal behavior analysis.
