Michael P. Nusbaum

Michael P. Nusbaum is a Professor of Neuroscience at the Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania. His research focuses on neural network flexibility, particularly how neuropeptides and small-molecule cotransmitters modify rhythmic motor patterns in the crab stomatogastric nervous system (STNS). Using intrasomatic recordings, immunocytochemistry, and confocal microscopy, he investigates modulatory mechanisms that enable multifunctional networks to produce behaviorally distinct outputs.

• Education: B.A. in History (SUNY Buffalo, 1973), B.A. in Biology (University of Colorado, 1978), Ph.D. in Neurobiology (UC San Diego, 1984)

His work addresses how co-released transmitters and hormonal inputs create parallel modulatory pathways within small neuronal networks. Key techniques include exogenous transmitter application, identified neuron analysis, and sensory network interaction studies. This research has implications for understanding neuronal network dynamics across species.

Recent publications explore feeding state-dependent modulation, electrical coupling effects, and co-transmission principles in model systems. Collaborators include researchers at the Perelman School of Medicine and institutions studying invertebrate neuroscience.

Contact: nusbaum@pennmedicine.upenn.edu