Claire Stelly

Claire Stelly is an Assistant Professor of Psychology at the Department of Psychological Sciences, Loyola University New Orleans. She specializes in behavioral neuroscience, focusing on the neurobiology of stress and substance use disorders, and leads a research lab investigating neural processes linking stress to motivated behaviors in model organisms.

• B.S. in Neuroscience, Tulane University (2008)
• Ph.D. in Neuroscience, University of Texas at Austin (2016)
• Previous research roles at University of Texas San Antonio and Tulane University

Claire's research spans neuroendocrinology, dopamine signaling, amygdala function, and synaptic plasticity, with applications to stress-related behavioral disorders and addiction mechanisms. Her recent publications highlight chemogenetic manipulation, neural circuit mapping, and epigenetic modulation in stress and substance use contexts.

Her work frequently examines species-specific motivated behaviors, threat discrimination, and contextual fear conditioning, utilizing rodent models and advanced neuroscientific techniques. Articles from 2025–2016 demonstrate her focus on neurotransmitter systems, neuroinflammation, and hormonal regulation in behavioral outcomes.

Teaching philosophy emphasizes scientific curiosity and rigorous research methodology in training students. Lab work integrates neural circuit analysis with behavioral paradigms to dissect stress and addiction mechanisms.