Mari Gades

Dr. Mari Gades is Assistant Professor of Neuroscience and Psychology in the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of St. Thomas. She holds a Ph.D. in Cognitive and Brain Sciences with Neuroscience minor from University of Minnesota.

Research Focus: Examines neuropharmacological mechanisms underlying substance use, with emphasis on tobacco/nicotine products, opioids, and polydrug interactions. Current projects investigate abuse liability of e-cigarettes, opioid-induced neuroplasticity, and harm reduction strategies.

Methodologies: Integrates behavioral assessment, molecular neuroscience, and clinical translational approaches to study addiction pathways and policy implications.

Publications: Recent work analyzes nicotine/flavor effects on e-cigarette appeal, morphine-induced cortical changes, and behavioral predictors of tobacco product substitution.