Jay Bertran-Gonzalez

Associate Professor Jay Bertran-Gonzalez is a faculty member in the School of Psychology at The University of New South Wales (UNSW), where he serves as Director of the Australasian Course in Advanced Neuroscience (ACAN) and Deputy Director of the Decision Neuroscience Laboratory. His work focuses on neuromodulatory systems, striatal circuits, and goal-directed behavior, with particular interests in aging, synaptic plasticity, and dopamine/cholinergic signaling.

• Education: PhD in Biomedical Research (Université Pierre et Marie Curie, 2010); Master of Biomedical Research (INSERM, 2007); Graduation Project (Universitat Pompeu Fabra, 2006).

His research explores how striatal circuits integrate neuromodulatory signals to control action selection, aging-related cognitive decline, and molecular mechanisms of neuroplasticity. Recent work examines lipid signaling in memory and cortico-basal ganglia interactions in behavioral adaptation.

Key trends in his 15 most recent articles include striatal neuroplasticity, aging and cognition, GPCR-mediated memory processes, and dopamine-cholinergic interneuron interactions. Collaborative networks span institutions like QBI, Columbia University, and the University of Geneva.

• Scientific Awards: ARC DECRA (2016), UNSW Dean of Science Early Career Award (2020), Goldstar Award (2018), and more.

He has secured significant grants, including NHMRC Ideas Grants (2024, 2023) and ARC Future Fellowship (2021-2024). He teaches NEUR3221 Neurophysiology and PSYC4103, and coordinates ACAN's Systems Neuroscience & Behaviour Theme.

As Head of the Neuromodulatory Systems & Behaviour Team and a member of the Australasian Neuroscience Society Council, he bridges research, education, and cross-institutional collaboration.