معرفی
Kristin Scaplen serves as an Assistant Professor of Psychology within Bryant University's College of Arts and Sciences, where she investigates neural circuit mechanisms underlying learning and memory disruption in addiction contexts using Drosophila models. Her research focuses on how pathologic memories guiding maladaptive reward-seeking behaviors are established and modified through experience, particularly in alcohol use scenarios.
Her academic foundation includes:
- Ph.D. in Neuroscience from Brown University
- B.S. in Biology from the University of Connecticut
- B.S. in Psychology from the University of Connecticut
Dr. Scaplen's research integrates neurogenetics, behavioral analysis, and circuit mapping to study memory persistence in substance abuse models. She examines how neural circuits for alcohol-associated memories form and evolve, aiming to translate findings from Drosophila to mammalian brain function. Her work bridges molecular mechanisms with behavioral outcomes in addiction neuroscience.
Analysis of her 15 most recent publications reveals a consistent focus on Drosophila neurogenetics applied to addiction research, with increasing emphasis on circuit-level analysis of alcohol preference behaviors. Key thematic trends include neural encoding of reward pathways, behavioral flexibility mechanisms, and comparative approaches to memory circuit function across species.
Her recognition includes:
- Bryant University Convocation Address honor (2024)
- Research Engagement Day Director's Award (2024)
- Excellence in Teaching award (2023)
- Women's Basketball Honorary Coach designation (2023)
- Mention of Merit distinctions (2022, 2024)
Dr. Scaplen actively mentors undergraduate researchers who gain comprehensive neuroscience experience in her lab, presenting findings at regional and international conferences including Society for Neuroscience. Her students have secured travel awards and won presentation competitions for their work on Drosophila memory circuits.
The Scaplen Lab operates as a collaborative undergraduate research hub focused on fruit fly models of memory, emphasizing open resource sharing and neuroscience outreach to local communities while advancing fundamental understanding of neural circuit plasticity.
