Daní K. Sheppard

Dr. Daní K. Sheppard is a Professor of Psychology at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, where she has been affiliated with the Department of Psychology since Fall 1999. She has held leadership roles including Department Chair and Coordinator of Undergraduate Studies, while also serving as Psi Chi Advisor.

• Education
• PhD in Developmental Physiological Psychology, George Mason University (1996)
• MA in Experimental Neuropsychology, George Mason University (1995)
• BS in Psychology, Virginia Tech (1988)

Her research spans biological perspectives on human behavior, with a focus on neural mechanisms, hormones, and genetics, as well as newer interests in environmental influences on health in northern latitudes, cardiac arrest reporting in Alaska, and online learning efficacy. She has previously conducted studies on animal models of OCD, effects of early psychotropic drug exposure, and ovarian hormone interactions with psychotropic medications.

Dr. Sheppard mentors students through interdisciplinary research projects bridging social and natural sciences, emphasizing quantitative methodologies. Her teaching portfolio includes Physiological Psychology, Psychopharmacology, Sports Psychology, and Developmental Psychology courses.

Outside academia, she engages in outdoor activities like flying, kayaking, and fishing, reflecting her connection to Alaska’s natural environment.