Ilsun White

Degrees, Licensures and Certifications: Ph.D., Indiana University Bloomington

Research Interests: Dr. White's main focus is to examine the mechanisms by which the prefrontal-basal ganglia system mediates cognitive processes, such as abstract rule-learning in both animals and humans. In addition, the involvement of the mesolimbic dopamine system in drug addiction is being examined, employing a model that combines behavioral, neuropharmacological, and neurophysiological approaches to investigate behavioral processes.

Research Topics:

• The prefrontal-basal ganglia system in higher-order learning in rats and humans
• Sex difference in drug abuse and stress: Involvement of hippocampus and amygdala
• Stress and stress hormones on learning and social interaction
• Exposure to alcohol and drugs during development and its long-term consequences in learning and social interaction
• Glutamate and dopamine modulation on learning and social interaction

Bio

Dr. Ilsun White received a Ph.D. in behavioral neuroscience from Indiana University in Bloomington. Her research focuses primarily on neural basis of higher order learning and neuropharmacology of drug abuse and addiction. Dr. White teaches Behavioral Neuroscience, Brain Development and Sex Differences, Drugs and Behavior, Introduction to Brain and Behavior; Introduction to Psychology, Research Courses, and Advanced Physiological Psychology (graduate).