Sarah Catchlove

Sarah Catchlove is a Research Fellow affiliated with Turning Point and Monash University. She holds a PhD in Cognitive Neuroscience from Swinburne University of Technology, focusing on cerebrovascular reactivity and healthy aging. Her research explores the health impacts of medications, cannabinoids, and nootropics, with a focus on brain function and clinical applications.

• Education:
  • PhD in Cognitive Neuroscience, Swinburne University of Technology (2018)
  • Science (Psychophysiology) Honours, Swinburne University of Technology (2009)
  • Bachelor of Science in Psychology & Psychophysiology, Swinburne University of Technology (2007)

Her research interests include:

• Clinical trials evaluating medicinal cannabis for muscle inflammation, insomnia, and autism
• Effects of cannabinoids on neurophysiology and behavior
• Gut microbiota’s role in stress resilience and cognitive performance
• Developing therapies for substance use disorders (e.g., oxytocin for methamphetamine use, MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for PTSD)

Current projects include investigating N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) for alcohol use disorder and oxytocin nasal spray for women with methamphetamine dependence.

She collaborates with institutions like the Australian Defence Force Science and Technology Group and leads projects funded by Cooper Investors Pty Limited. Her work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to health and well-being.

Catchlove serves on academic committees, including the FMNHS ECR Steering Committee and the Research Impact Working Group (RIWG).