Jeff Kelly

Dr. Jeff Kelly is an Assistant Professor of Neuroscience in the Division of Behavioral Sciences at Maryville College, where he joined in fall 2024. His research focuses on stress neurobiology and neural & phenotypic plasticity in response to environmental and social stressors, primarily using zebrafish and Syrian hamsters as model organisms.

His research interests include:

• Neuroendocrine responses to stress
• Kisspeptin modulation of fear and anxiety
• Environmental impacts on fish neurodevelopment and health
• Development of brain-computer interfaces for individuals with disabilities

Dr. Kelly's work combines laboratory-based neuroscience with field research in local Appalachian river systems to study the effects of pollutants and environmental change on aquatic species. His interdisciplinary approach spans behavioral ecology, neurobiology, and environmental science.

He has previously conducted research at the Norwegian University of Science & Technology, the University of Tromsø, and the University of Montana, gaining expertise in evolutionary behavioral ecology, memory neurobiology, and neuropsychopharmacology.

Dr. Kelly earned his educational degrees from prestigious institutions:

• B.A., University of Montana
• M.Phil., Liverpool John Moores University (2019)
• Ph.D., University of Tennessee, Knoxville (Neuroscience & Behavior)

He is actively building his research program at Maryville College and mentoring undergraduate researchers in neuroscience and behavioral studies.