Megan Tomasch, External Behavior Core User

Ph.D. Candidate, UMaine’s Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering

Throughout my time at UNE, the Behavior Core has provided invaluable support to a variety of different projects I’ve worked on — from training behavioral assays and animal handling techniques to coordinating use of shared spaces. More specifically, the Behavior Core plays an essential role in the in-house breeding of the research animals used in my lab and training our students on techniques for assessing sensitivity to different stimuli following experimental treatment(s). The knowledge, expertise, and services provided by the core members is unmatched. The members consistently provide timely responses to both simple and complex questions, issues, and requests. They are always willing to help, further cementing themselves as a vital part of my research efforts.

I am a Ph.D. student through UMaine’s Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering. My research focuses on behavioral neuroscience, impulsivity, reward and motivation, drug abuse, chronic pain, chronic pain-induced cognitive impairments, and anxiety. Behavior Core staff have trained me on the von Frey testing technique, which allows for assessment of mechanical sensitivity following experimental manipulations. Additionally, the ability to have the use of shared space and all the equipment the core offers has helped my research projects progress. The Behavior Core plays an essential role in our in-house breeding procedure by providing injections that synchronize the estrus cycle of our female rats.