Current Research Description

Dr. Vonder Haar’s research is focused on behavioral dysfunction, particularly as it relates to disease states. Psychiatric-like impairments are very common after traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). The lab uses rodent models of TBI to better understand why these problems develop and how they might be treated. One such avenue includes investigation of neuroinflammation to determine whether this is a viable treatment target for the long-term symptoms of TBI. Another line of research looks at long-term changes in the dopamine system as a potential driver of psychiatric-like impairments. Cutting across all of this is a strong focus on behavioral assessments which maximize translational relevance. 

We use a collection of high-throughput operant behavioral techniques to chronically assess impulsivity, decision-making, and other outcomes. We also make use of other behavioral neuroscience techniques, including mazes and motor measures. We use stereotaxic surgery to perform interventions such as brain injury or implants. In the wet lab, we use a collection of microscopy techniques (e.g., immunohistochemistry) and other protein measurements (e.g., Western blot, ELISA).

Mentoring Philosophy

My overall mentoring goal is to transition a trainee to operating independently over the course of their time with me. I am a firm believer that people learn by doing and learn by teaching. As such, my lab encourages a very hands-on approach to training methods. Trainees are then expected to mentor the junior lab members as this helps solidify knowledge for themselves and strengthens the overall lab environment. Trainees can expect to leave my lab with a firm grasp of experimental design, statistics, and application of sophisticated behavioral methodology as well as various wet lab techniques.

Link to Vonder Haar Lab website