Exhibiting appropriate behavioral responses to environmental cues is critical both to obtain resources (e.g., food, shelter etc.) and avoid negative outcomes. Both locus coeruleus neural activity and brain-wide levels of norepinephrine, a majority of which originates from locus coeruleus, have been shown to be crucial for triggering an appropriate behavioral response to a stimulus. Ellen’s research will characterize locus coeruleus neural activity, ensembles, and projection patterns underlying cue-driven behavior during positive and negative reinforcement behavior. Her research will further our understanding of the neural underpinnings of appropriate cue-driven behavior, highlight circuits that may contribute to maladaptive behavior, and inform circuit-based treatment targets.