About Us

Sandra Watson’s research explores the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in neuronal homeostasis and how disruptions in these pathways contribute to psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. Currently, she focuses on how the brain maintains appropriate levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter linked to addiction, depression, schizophrenia, and Parkinson’s disease. She received her degree in cell and molecular biology at The Rockefeller University in New York City, where she studied the importance of protein breakdown by the proteasome. From there, she went on to investigate mechanisms of dopamine release with the support of a postdoctoral schizophrenia fellowship in the Department of Psychiatry at Columbia University. Her research utilizes fruit flies and has contributed to our understanding of how protein breakdown is necessary for maintaining neuronal function and how the psychostimulant amphetamine acts on dopamine to alter sleep behavior. She seeks to integrate her research with disciplines such as art and history to improve our understanding and treatment of mental health disorders. Watson earned a BS in biochemistry from Spelman College and a PhD in cell and molecular biology from The Rockefeller University.