Lab Members

Marvin R. Diaz, Ph.D - Principal Investigator

I received my B.S. in biology (with minors in chemistry and psychology) from UNC @ Wilmington and my Ph.D in neuroscience from Wake Forest University School of Medicine under Dr. Brian McCool. I completed a postdoc fellowship under Dr. C. Fernando Valenzuela at University of New Mexico. 

Aside from my passion for neuroscience, I enjoy spending time with my family, cooking, and watching baseball.

Kelcie Schatz, PhD - Research Scientist

I received my B.A. in psychology from Binghamton University before earning my Ph.D in behavioral neuroscience from the University at Buffalo in the laboratory of Dr. Matthew Paul.  I am interested in how the brain regulates behavior throughout development, and how disruption of these processes can contribute to neurological disorders.

In addition to research, I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, going to concerts, and reading.

Mary Spodnick, MS - Graduate Student

I am a sixth-year Behavioral Neuroscience graduate student. I received my B.S. in Psychology from Southern Connecticut State University and came to Binghamton with interests in the neural mechanisms underlying substance use and psychiatric disorders. My current research focuses on the kappa opioid receptor/dynorphin system and how it mediates the consequences of substance use. 

Aside from neuroscience, I enjoy arts and crafts, relaxing with a videogame, and cooking, baking, and eating good food. 

Sarah Winchester, MS - Graduate Student

I am a fourth-year graduate student in the Behavioral Neuroscience program at Binghamton University. I received my B.A. in Psychology with a minor in biology from California State University, Bakersfield. I will be researching the effects of prenatal exposure to alcohol on the central amygdala.

My hobbies include escape rooms, snowboarding, and hiking. 

*Diversity Supplement recipient*

Shannon McElderry, BA - Graduate Student

I am a second year graduate student in the Behavioral Neuroscience program. I received my B.A. in psychology (with a minor in cognitive science) from the State University of New York at Geneseo. I am interested in studying prenatal polysubstance use and its adverse effects in offspring. 

Outside of research, I enjoy hiking, dancing, and completing the Wordle. 

Carley Cirafesi, MA - Graduate Student