Dr. Charlis Raineki

My laboratory’s work examines how our unique experiences across development have profound impacts on our brains and behavior. Our primary research interest is to uncover biological mechanisms underlying neurobehavioral deficits induced by pre- and/or early postnatal adverse experiences, with a special focus on understanding the increased vulnerability to develop psychopathologies such as depression and anxiety.

The overarching goals for my research program focus on:
1) assessing short- and long-term effects of pre- and/or postnatal adverse environments on behavior, specifically as they relate to mental health outcomes;
2) understanding the mechanisms by which pre- and/or postnatal adverse environments “get under the skin” and alter neurodevelopmental trajectories; and
3) evaluating the effectiveness of interventions and therapeutic strategies for ameliorating adversity-related neurobehavioral deficits.