Supervising Faculty: Marta Pecina, MD PhD
Contact: Dr. Marta Pecina, pecinam@upmc.edu
Area of Research: Psychiatry
Description of Research: The main focus of our research is to examine individual differences in mechanisms of antidepressant treatment response in order to identify new targets for therapeutic interventions. In particular, we are interested in understanding how expectancies and learning mechanisms impact mood improvement using placebos as experimental probes. We use functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) in conjunction with physiological and behavioral measures to investigate how the response to pharmacological treatments can be shaped by expectancies and learning mechanisms.
Duties of Students: Students will assist in phone screenings for study recruitment, data verification, and clinical visits. Students will also have the opportunity to get involved in a data analysis project to present as a poster presentation, abstract submission, or honors thesis.
Requirements:
- Overall GPA of 3.0 or higher
- 12 credits of Psychology (including current term)
- STAT 0200/1000/1100 Statistics
- PSY 0036 Research Methods Lecture
- PSY 0037 Research Methods Lab
- Minimum 2 term commitment
Recruitment Process: The recruitment process starts with a virtual interview with the Research Coordinator. If the coordinator believes the student could be a good fit for the lab based on research interest and availability, the student is invited into the lab for an in-person interview Dr. Pecina. The interview assesses availability, the type of position the student is looking for, previous experience, qualifications, and reason for interest in the lab. This interview process and questions are consistent for all students to ensure equal opportunity.
Additional Information: http://tnn.pitt.edu/
Terms offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
Number of Students: 5