Naomi Driesen, PhD

My research career reflects a strong commitment to understanding the brain and psychopathology through mechanistic research. I am a clinical psychologist who has specialized in neuropsychology and functional magnetic resonance imaging. In my early career, I collaborated with Dr. Patricia Goldman-Rakic on researching human prefrontal function and psychopathology. After this, I began using ketamine to probe the brain’s function. My investigation of NMDA receptor antagonists has spanned studies of symptoms, cognitive function, and brain connectivity and activation measured with functional magnetic resonance imaging. In recent years, my work has become more closely involved with studying the mechanisms underlying mood disorders. I currently am working on a RO1 from NIMH on the brain mechanisms underlying ketamine's antidepressant effects.