Austin Coley

Dr. Austin Coley is a tenure-track Assistant Professor in the Department of Neurobiology at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), David Geffen School of Medicine, and Principal Investigator of the Coley Lab. He is also an active member of the UCLA Brain Research Institute and the Integrative Center for Learning and Memory.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Drexel University, 2014–2019
• M.S. in Cell Physiology, Case Western Reserve University, 2009–2012
• B.S. in Biology, North Carolina Central University, 2005–2009

Research Focus:
Dr. Coley’s laboratory employs state-of-the-art tools—including in vivo 2-photon calcium imaging, ex vivo electrophysiology, optogenetics, and machine-learning-based behavioral tracking—to dissect neural circuits underlying depressive-like behaviors and anhedonia. By integrating computational modeling with experimental neuroscience, the team investigates how synaptic and circuit-level dysfunctions in the prefrontal cortex contribute to major depressive disorder and schizophrenia. The overarching goal is to identify cellular and molecular biomarkers that enable early, targeted interventions in mental health disorders.

Scientific Awards & Honors:

• SCGB Transition to Independence Award (2022)
• NIH Research in Emerging Areas Critical to Human Health LRP Award (2022)
• 40 Under 40, Drexel University (2021)
• 1,000 Inspiring Black Scientists in America, Cell Mentor (2020)
• NIH Blueprint Diversity D-SPAN F99/K00 Fellowship (2017–2024)
• IBRO Fellowship (2019)
• Research Innovation Award, Drexel University (2019)
• Multiple travel and trainee leadership awards from Salk Institute and professional societies

Funding & Support:
Current funding includes the Brain & Behavior Research Foundation NARSAD Award (2025–present), Simons Collaboration on the Global Brain Transition to Independence Award (2022–present), and past NIH LRP and D-SPAN awards, alongside private philanthropic donations.

Teaching & Mentorship:
Dr. Coley has taught Cellular Neurobiology at UC San Diego and Anatomy & Physiology at Brookdale Community College, and delivered guest lectures on synaptic plasticity at Drexel. He actively mentors students and trainees through formal and informal programs, with a demonstrated commitment to increasing diversity in neuroscience.

Labs & Teams:
The Coley Lab at UCLA is an interdisciplinary team focused on neural circuits of mood disorders. Dr. Coley also maintains collaborative ties with the Brain Research Institute and Integrative Center for Learning and Memory at UCLA, as well as ongoing interactions with colleagues at the Salk Institute, UC San Diego, and other national centers.