Dr. Laura Nawijn, PhD

As a neuroscientist, I investigate the neurobiology of mental health, particularly Depression, Anxiety and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Using neuroimaging, genetics and endocrine stress markers, I look for neurobiological correlates of symptom dimensions (such as anxiety and anhedonia) and risk factors (such as trauma exposure and lifestyle) that are involved in these mental health disorders. Furthermore, I use longitudinal modeling to explore how these associations develop over time.

Through my work, I want to get a better understanding of the way mental health issues develop from a biological and psychosocial perspective, and why people differ from each other in their vulnerability to these problems. 

Next to my research, I teach the courses Human Stress Research and Big Questions in Consciousness at Amsterdam University College.