Breathing Neuroscience Laboratory

The primary research focus in our laboratory is to understand the neural mechanisms underlying mammalian breathing movements and how breathing-related neuronal activity affects signal processing in various brain regions. Biological rhythms are critical denominators of animal behavior – underlying precise regulation of physiology across time scales ranging from milliseconds to months. Breathing rhythm is the most vital rhythmic behavior that has an astonishingly broad influence on the brain and the body. The apparent simplicity of breathing masks its central pattern generator's (CPG) complexity, which exhibits diverse operational modes to regulate gas exchange and coordinate breathing with behaviors such as vocalization/speech, swallowing, laughing, and sensory processing.

Our laboratory aims to understand signal-processing mechanisms in the brain that enable the expression of highly robust yet remarkably labile breathing patterns in mammals. Toward this end, we employ an integrative and interdisciplinary approach spanning computational and experimental neuroscience.

Note: We are expanding as a synergistic learning group and are particularly interested in mentoring curious individuals eager to pursue interdisciplinary research. Individuals from all academic backgrounds willing to expand their boundaries are welcome.