Constanza Garcia Keller

Dr. Constanza Garcia Keller is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology at the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW), joining in July 2022. Her academic journey includes a BS in Chemical Sciences (2007) and a PhD in Pharmacology (2014) from the National University of Córdoba, Argentina, followed by postdoctoral training and a research assistant professorship in Dr. Kalivas’ laboratory at the Medical University of South Carolina. Her research focuses on the neurobiological mechanisms linking stress, trauma, and addiction, particularly examining synaptic plasticity, extracellular matrix interactions, and neuroimmune-endocrine pathways.

Educational Background

• Bachelor of Science in Chemical Sciences, National University of Córdoba (2007)
• PhD in Pharmacology, National University of Córdoba (2014)
• Postdoctoral Training in Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina (2014–2019)

Research Interests

Dr. Garcia Keller’s lab investigates how acute stress and traumatic events increase vulnerability to substance use disorders (SUDs), with a focus on the pentapartite synapse (neurons, astrocytes, microglia, extracellular matrix). Key projects include:

• Neurocircuitry and cell-type specificity in stress/addiction
• Role of ECM signaling and microglia activation
• Development of oligonucleotide-based therapies targeting genes involved in SUDs

Awards & Grants

• 2014: Best Argentinian Neuroscience Thesis Award
• 2022–2013: Multiple travel and fellowship awards from ACNP, ISN, and CONICET

Labs & Collaborations

Her lab uses rodent models to study stress-induced neuroplasticity and SUD comorbidity, with a focus on translational therapies targeting synaptic and glial mechanisms.