Michael Steinman, a doctoral student in the Molecular, Cellular and Integrative Physiology Graduate Group, studies social phobias – specifically depression. “Studies show that women are twice as likely as men to report suffering from depression,” stated Steinman. Steinman’s research aims to identify sex differences in neurobiology that might explain this discrepancy.

Steinman works on-campus in the UC Davis Department of Psychology, but has collaborated with global institutions like the Max Planck Institute in Germany. “My group is very interdisciplinary and includes faculty and labs that cover most areas of physiology,” said Steinman. He sees this as very beneficial to his education and research because it provides access to various different perspectives and techniques.

As an undergraduate at UC Davis, Steinman’s interests led him to study Avian Sciences, where he focused on biology and physiology. He continued his stay at UC Davis for a master’s degree in endocrinology, examining how the brain uses chemical signals to communicate with the body. “That’s when I found out I enjoyed research and wanted to pursue a Ph.D.,” said Steinman. “My master’s advisor was part of the Molecular, Cellular and Integrative Physiology Graduate Group, and suggested the program to me because of the solid background in physiology it provides and the excellence of faculty.”

Steinman’s research has been funded in part by a three-year Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award (NRSA) from the National Institute of Mental health. The funding enabled Steinman to focus on his dissertation and attend international conferences on his field of study.

Steinman has been in Davis as a student since 2000. “UC Davis’ research environment is extremely friendly and collaborative,” he shared. “I hope that wherever I go in the future, I will be able to work closely with others and continue to exchange assistance and ideas much like I’m able to do here.”

The primary goal of Steinman’s is to improve human health and well being through research. He also enjoys working with undergraduates, who assist him in his work. “I work regularly with a number of undergraduates in my laboratory,” he said. “When they want to go to graduate school, and build on what they have learned in the lab, I find it very exciting!”

More information on Steinman’s research can be found on the group’s website.

Photo credit: Sarah A. Laredo.