Research Interests

The Rajadhyaksha Lab studies the molecular and brain circuit mechanisms behind substance use and mood-related disorders. One area examines how calcium signaling in the brain affects behaviors related to cocaine and mood disorders. This is crucial because recent studies have linked these genes to neuropsychiatric and substance use disorders. The team aims to understand how genetics influence addiction and mental health conditions. Another research area looks at how the brain’s endocannabinoid and opioid systems interact. The team is currently testing whether targeting the endocannabinoid system can reduce the rewarding effects of opioids without affecting pain relief. Ultimately, the lab’s goal is to facilitate the development of better treatments for addiction and related conditions.

Education, Training & Credentials

• Postdoctoral Fellowship, Molecular Neuroscience, Harvard Medical School
• PhD, Molecular Biology
• Purdue University\n- BSc, Chemistry, University of Mumbai

Memberships

• Society for Neuroscience
• The Calcium Channel Network

Honors & Awards

• Outstanding Performance as Undergraduate Mentor-The Leadership Alliance
• Weill Cornell Graduate School Excellence in Teaching and Mentoring Award