Department of Biology

Lab

Fernandez Lab website

Research

Research in our lab aims to understand the mechanisms underlying neuronal control of behavior. In particular, we study how the brain’s circadian clock modulates various behavioral outputs. Circadian systems have evolved to allow organisms to maintain internal temporal order and anticipate the environmental changes that occur due to Earth’s rotation. Timing of behaviors is essential for survival, as it determines an animal`s ability to be physiologically ready for resources and potential mates. The circadian clock controls not only simple behaviors such as sleep/wake cycles, but also more complex, plastic behaviors that are sexually dimorphic such as courtship and aggression. One of our areas of study is the neuronal basis of sex differences in clock network organization and function.  

The biochemical components that drive molecular oscillations are well understood, but the physiological mechanisms by which clock neuron networks connect to each other and to their output pathways remain unclear. We use a combination of behavioral assays, genetics, and imaging methods in the genetically tractable and relatively simple circadian clock neuronal network of Drosophila melanogaster to elucidate patterns of structural and functional connectivity, which is essential to understand circadian timekeeping. In addition, we aim to understand the development of circadian pacemaker neurons. By studying how these highly stereotyped and well characterized neurons develop and integrate into neural circuits we aim to address more general questions in neuroscience, such as the molecular mechanisms underlying neuronal connectivity.  

Research Areas

Behavior
Developmental Mechanisms and Regulation in Eukaryotic Systems

Selected honors and awards

• NSF CAREER Award (2023)
• Barnard College Brooks Excellence in Teaching Award (2023)
• MINDS Fellow (2020)
• Harvard University Distinction in Teaching Award  (2012 and 2011)
• Young Investigator Award  (2010), International Society for Neuroethology
• Pew Fellow (2008), Pew Program in the Biomedical Sciences

Professional Affiliations

• Society for Neuroscience (SfN)
• International Society for Neuroethology (ISN)
• Society for Research on Biological Rhythms (SRBR)
• Genetics Society of America (GSA)