The Mews Lab is pioneering research at the intersection of neuroepigenetics, metabolism, and neural plasticity in the adult brain, with an emphasis on substance use disorders. Our research builds on the concept that metabolic processes and the epigenome are deeply interconnected, influencing gene expression and behavior in profound ways. At the heart of our work are two critical questions that drive our investigations:
Interplay of Metabolism and Epigenetics: How do metabolic processes intertwine with epigenetic factors to orchestrate gene responses in the brain? This question delves into the heart of cellular function, exploring the dynamic and reciprocal relationship between the metabolic state of a cell and its epigenetic landscape. We are committed to deciphering how these interactions dictate gene expression patterns, influence neural plasticity, and ultimately shape cognitive and behavioral outcomes.
Influence of Diet and Substance Use on Chromatin Dynamics: How do external factors like nutrients and drugs of abuse alter chromatin states, thereby impacting brain function? Here, we probe the profound effects of environmental inputs on the brain’s epigenetic makeup. We seek to understand how these factors induce changes in chromatin structure and function, leading to lasting modifications in neural circuits and behavior. This line of investigation is particularly crucial in understanding the pathogenesis of substance use disorders and in identifying potential epigenetic targets for therapeutic intervention.
The lab combines innovative molecular and behavioral methodologies to explore how metabolism-to-epigenome signaling governs brain function. Our work not only bridges diverse scientific disciplines but also holds the promise of unlocking new therapeutic avenues for neuropsychiatric disorders. Join our team and explore opportunities to contribute, learn, and thrive in our dynamic research environment.
https://www.themewslab.com
2023 International Society for Neurochemistry:
Emerging Group Leader Award
2022 Science and AAAS:
BII & Science Prize
2022 The Friedman Brain Institute:
FBI Research Scholar
2021 Keystone for Incubating Innovation in Life Sciences Network:
Postdoctoral Entrepreneurship Award
2021 NIAAA:
NIH K99 Pathway to Independence Award
2020 Winter Conference on Brain Research:
WCBR Travel Fellow Awardee
2020 Nature Research Award:
The Spinoff Prize – Finalist
2019 Brain & Behavior Research Foundation:
NARSAD Young Investigator Award
2019 College on Problems of Drug Dependence:
CPDD Award for Early Career Investigators
2018 Molecular and Cellular Cognition Society:
MCCS Scholar
2018 Society for Neuroscience:
Trainee Professional Development Award
2018 Research Society on Alcoholism:
Gordis Award Finalist
2017 University of Pennsylvania:
Kadesh Prize, Penn Award of Excellence in Research
2017 EMBO Conference on Neural Fate Decisions:
Travel Award
2015 Abcam Epigenetics, Obesity and Metabolism:
Travel Grant Recipient
2014 National Academy of Sciences, Epigenetic Changes in the Brain:
Travel Award
2013 Abcam Chromatin: Structure and Function:
Travel Grant Recipient
2012 University of Pennsylvania :
President Gutmann Leadership Award
2012 Chemistry-Biology Interface Training Program:
CBI Scholar
2011 University of Pennsylvania:
Travel Grant Recipient
2009 United States Department of State:
Fulbright Scholar
2009 Freie Universität Berlin:
University Honors, summa cum laude