Principal Investigator
Victoria L. Templer, Ph.D.
My lab develops animal models of memory, learning, and attention that answer both behavioral and neurobiological processing questions. The goal is two-fold: 1) to characterize cognitive and neural substrates of different memory systems implicated in human aging, disease, and mental health, and 2) inform cognitive evolution.
Email: vtempler@providence.edu
Undergraduates
Laboratory Manager
Jose Pena ’25
I am a senior pursuing a B.S. in Neuroscience. The brain interests me because of its integral role in behavior. The vast capabilities of the brain and its seemingly abstract cognitive functions also fascinate me. By utilizing rodent models, we can uncover the function of homologous neuronal structures and potentially translate our findings to humans! Elucidating cognitive similarities and differences between animals and humans is also interesting as it informs cognitive evolution across species. I am a premedical student and am pursuing a clinical career. My time in the lab has reinforced my scientific inquiry and teamwork skills, which I hope transfer to a future career in medicine. I am thrilled to research the neural substrates underlying behavior and cognition!
Tess Cody ’25
I am currently a senior pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience, with a minor in English. My academic and research interests are centered around understanding the complexities of brain function, particularly the mechanisms underlying neurological disorders. I am deeply fascinated by how the brain operates in both its normal and dysfunctional states. Through our research in the NAC Lab, I aim to explore animal models to gain insights into brain activity, which I believe will be instrumental in my long-term goal of attending medical school. I am committed to advancing my knowledge of the human brain, as I believe that understanding the neurological basis of behavior is essential for a career in medicine.
Ashley Sawtelle ’26
I am currently a junior pursing a B.A. in psychology at Providence College. One of the many reasons as to why I enjoy studying psychology is because it helps us better understand each human individually. Understanding how our brains along with nonhuman brains are wired, helps us improve our qualities of life. With all of my knowledge obtained from my studies both inside and outside of the NAC lab, I hope to work with people facing difficulties in communication.
Andrew Pryor ’27
I am currently a Sophomore working towards a B.S. in Biology with a certificate in Neuroscience. Conducting research in the NAC lab allows me to pursue my interests in learning about the brain and its capabilities. I have always had an interest in memory and cognition and this lab has allowed me to expand my knowledge on these topics. By studying rodent models and thinking critically about our experiments we can unveil more about learning in rodents. I am also very fascinated in the cognitive similarities animals may have with humans. I am very excited to be a part of the NAC lab and participate in neuroscience research!
Neuroscience & Animal Cognition 