Daniel H. O'Connor, Ph.D., M.A.

Dr. O’Connor applies advanced methods of behavioral analysis, electrophysiology, two-photon calcium imaging using genetically encoded sensors, and molecular gain- and loss-of-function manipulations to study the function of the cerebral cortex circuits. He investigates how the cerebral cortex circuits produce sensory perception and the ability to pay attention and how dysfunction in these circuits manifests as neurological disease.

Dr. O’Connor and his team use mouse models to study how brain dynamics affect a person’s sensory experience of the world. They train mice to perform simple perceptual tasks. By using quantitative behavior, optogenetic and chemical-genetic gain- and loss-of-function perturbations, in vivo two-photon imaging, and electrophysiology, they assemble a description of the relationship between neural circuit function and perception. They work in the mouse tactile system to capitalize on an accessible mammalian circuit with a precise mapping between the sensory periphery and multiple brain areas.

By unraveling circuits for touch perception in the mouse, they expect to gain key insights into principles of mammalian brain function, and to provide a framework to understand how circuit dysfunction ultimately causes mental and behavioral aspects of neuropsychiatric illness.