RESEARCH

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1) identify modifiable inflammatory processes or molecules linked to affective and anxiety disorders; and develop behavioural and/or psychopharmacological interventions with the potential to alter neuroimmune mechanisms and improve clinical outcomes;

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2) explore the role of the locus coeruleus in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease using MRI imaging technique, with the goal of identifying new pharmacological intervention targets;

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3) use pupillometry to facilitate quantifiable measurements of cognitive load and brain activity, in particular to explore the potential role of noradrenaline in cognitive processing under stress and anxiety;

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4) examine comorbid anxiety and depression in medical conditions such as asthma, autoimmune diseases, subarachnoid haemorrhage, and cancer, and identify potential underlying mechanisms; and harness new understanding of the biological pathways underlying co-morbidities and disease clustering to develop new therapies and interventions;

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5) investigate sleep problems in affective disorders and examine the role of the locus coeruleus and neuroinflammation. 

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