MoodlabMeets is an interdisciplinary research group exploring the intricate interplay between mental health, biological psychiatry, and psychonomics. Our work focuses on the dynamic course of mood, particularly during adolescence—a pivotal period of neurodevelopmental plasticity. By leveraging this malleability, we aim to develop novel interventions that mitigate mood disorders like depression.

Our research adopts a complexity approach, integrating multiple levels of analysis, from hormonal and metabolomic studies to the emerging role of the microbiome in mental health. Positioned at the intersection of the exposome and psychobiological functioning, the microbiome offers a transformative perspective on mental well-being. In collaboration with the University of Amsterdam’s Swammerdam Institute of Life Sciences, we conduct discovery, mechanistic, and intervention studies to translate scientific insights into real-world applications.

Clinically, Moodlab is pioneering advances in adolescent mental health through the Transition Center for Affective Disorders (TAS), an Amsterdam UMC initiative aimed at early intervention. We investigate neuro(modulation)-techniques, cognition, interoceptive awareness, esketamine and interventions targeting anhedonia.

Beyond research, we engage the public through Art with museum exhibitions, media content, and interdisciplinary art-science collaborations, such as The Microbiome Restaurant, an XR experience questioning human autonomy.

Unraveling the Complexity of Mood Dynamics

Team members