Sarah Bailey

Professor Sarah Bailey is a faculty member in the Department of Life Sciences at the University of Bath, specializing in neuropharmacology and mental health research. Her work focuses on understanding molecular mechanisms underlying depression and stress responses, particularly through kappa opioid receptors (KOR) and neuroinflammation. She collaborates on developing novel KOR ligands and investigates sex differences in drug responses.

Her research integrates behavioral, electrophysiological, and molecular techniques, addressing gaps in antidepressant efficacy and the translational relevance of preclinical studies. Notable projects include exploring KOR’s role in stress-induced depression and the inflammasome’s impact on cytokine-driven mood disorders.

Publications highlight studies on opioid receptor signaling in thalamic neurons, sex-specific neuroinflammation effects, and the importance of gender-inclusive animal models. She advocates for improved translational research practices and contributes to editorial roles in journals like the British Journal of Pharmacology.

Current grants include projects on opioid overdose mechanisms and kappa receptor antagonists. She supervises doctoral students and emphasizes ethical considerations in animal research training.