Phillip Rivera

Phillip Rivera serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology at Macalester College, commencing his faculty appointment in summer 2023. He is dedicated to fostering curiosity in basic research through safe-space environments in both classroom and laboratory settings while emphasizing the value of interpersonal relationships and continuous learning.

His educational qualifications include:

• BS from New Mexico State University (2005)
• MS from New Mexico State University (2008)
• PhD from UT Southwestern Medical Center (2015)

Dr. Rivera's research centers on behavioral neuroimmunology, investigating how microglia—immune cells in the brain—influence learning and memory processes, particularly in contexts of addiction and neurological disorders like PTSD. His work challenges the current understanding of memory by exploring factors beyond neuronal mechanisms, aiming to uncover fundamental principles for treating substance abuse disorders involving opiates, THC, and alcohol.

He actively mentors students in his research laboratory and encourages prospective researchers to contact him directly. His scientific mission addresses the core question of what influences established memories, positioning this inquiry as critical for advancing memory theory and clinical interventions for memory-related pathologies.