As a behavioral neuroscientist, she is interested in the relationship between behavior, brain mechanisms, and physiology that may impact human health. Her primary research interests have included the detrimental effects of sleep loss and how sleep benefits health. In particular, she has focused on the effect of sleep restriction on brain reward and feeding systems as well as peripheral metabolic systems in both rodent and human models. Her most recent studies have identified a rhythm in circulating endocannabinoid levels, a system that has garnered much attention in recent years for its involvement in feeding regulation. Current research also includes examining diurnal variations in the composition and functionality of the gut microbiome, in line with her interests regarding peripheral metabolic systems, circadian rhythms, and physiology. More Information