Jessica A. Siegel

Jessica A. Siegel is an Associate Professor jointly appointed in Neuroscience and Psychology at the University of St. Thomas. She holds a PhD in Behavioral Neuroscience from Oregon Health & Science University and a BA in Psychology from the University of Puget Sound. Siegel's research examines the long-term neurobehavioral effects of methamphetamine exposure using mouse models, with particular focus on adolescent brain development, dopamine transporters, cortisol levels, and interactions with other substances like nicotine.

Her research program investigates how drug exposure during critical developmental periods alters neural circuitry and behavioral outcomes. Current projects examine adolescent methamphetamine exposure effects on striatal dopamine systems and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis function, with implications for understanding addiction vulnerability and neurodevelopmental disorders.

Siegel's publications demonstrate consistent focus on psychopharmacology and neurotoxicology, particularly examining developmental timing of drug exposure. Recent work explores environmental moderators of drug effects and neuroinflammatory markers.

She teaches courses including Brain & Human Behavior, Drugs & Behavior, Principles of Neuroscience, and Neuropharmacology, integrating her research expertise into the curriculum.