Dr. Shanna Babalonis conducts research focused on understanding how cannabis affects individuals with opioid use disorder. Her lab aims to answer important questions about whether cannabis can alter the desire to take opioids, providing essential data during the ongoing opioid crisis. By studying this interaction, the research hopes to inform public health policies and clinical practices related to addiction treatment.

Dr. Michelle M Martel's lab focuses on understanding how the menstrual cycle and hormones impact Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in young women. By studying changes in estrogen and progesterone, the lab aims to explore their effects on cognition and ADHD symptoms, particularly during stages of the menstrual cycle. This research is crucial for developing sex-specific treatments for ADHD that are tailored to hormonal fluctuations in females.

Dr. Shannon E Sauer-Zavala's lab focuses on improving mental health treatments by targeting specific personality traits that are linked to various psychological disorders. The lab conducts research aimed at developing personalized therapy modules that address these key personality dimensions, hoping to enhance treatment response rates for mental illnesses like borderline personality disorder. By identifying and validating effective interventions that cater to individual personality profiles, the lab aims to contribute to precision medicine in mental health.

Dr. William Walton Stoops leads a research lab at the University of Kentucky focused on understanding and treating cocaine and methamphetamine use disorders. His studies explore how the immune system and brain chemistry interact in addiction, specifically targeting disruptions in the glutamate system. By evaluating existing medications and their effects on drug-seeking behaviors, the lab aims to find better treatment options for individuals struggling with these substance use disorders.

Dr. Michele Staton's lab at the University of Kentucky focuses on reducing overdose deaths among women, particularly those affected by the criminal justice system in rural areas. They are researching innovative strategies to support these women as they transition from jail back into their communities, aiming to improve their access to treatment and decrease overdose risks. The lab combines behavioral health approaches with practical support interventions to empower women during this critical period.