James Burkett

Lab Manager

james.p.burkett@gmail.com

In February of 2007, I joined the Young Lab as an undergraduate researcher because of my intense interest in behavioral neuroscience. I have since earned a B.S. in Biology and Chemistry and I now continue my research with Dr. Young while serving as lab manager.

My research investigates the long-hypothesized connection between the opiate system and social attachment. In the late 1970's, Jak Panksepp introduced and developed the theory that brain opioids were involved in social behaviors such as mother-infant bonding, playfulness, and approach. Using the prairie vole model, I am investigating the hypothesis that brain opioids are involved in monogamous pair bonding behavior as well. This is the first experimental manipulation that has looked at the role of opioids and their receptors in bonding between partners.

I am currently planning to work in the research field over the following year in preparation for graduate study in neuroscience.