Dear Readers,
It is my pleasure to welcome you to the inaugural issue of the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences (PBS) magazine. This publication marks an exciting new chapter in our ongoing commitment to fostering community, celebrating scholarship, and sharing the impactful work being done by our students, faculty, alumni, and staff.
At UMass Amherst, our department stands at the intersection of rigorous scientific inquiry and a deep commitment to understanding the human experience. From the molecular mechanisms of neural function to the intricacies of cognition, behavior, and mental health, our researchers and educators are pushing boundaries and asking bold questions that matter. Our faculty and students explore the complexities of the world, from cells to societies.
This past year has been one of remarkable growth and innovation. Our faculty has secured groundbreaking grants, published in leading journals, and forged interdisciplinary collaborations that span neuroscience, psychology, computer science, and public health. We have just launched our new major in Neuroscience with our partners in the Department of Biology and have completed a revamp of our Psychology major curriculum. We are also celebrating our participation in Global Launch, with some of our first-year students starting their educational journey in London, England and Madrid, Spain. Our students continue to inspire us with their curiosity, resilience, and drive to make a difference—whether through research, clinical training, or community engagement.
In this issue, you’ll find stories that highlight the breadth and depth of our work: profiles of our labs undertaking pioneering research, celebrations for alumni making waves in their fields and giving back to PBS, and updates on new initiatives that are shaping the future of psychological and brain sciences at UMass. We hope these stories not only inform but also inspire.
As Chair, I am proud of the vibrant intellectual community we’ve built together. I invite you to engage with us—whether by attending events, mentoring students, collaborating on research, or simply staying connected. Your support and involvement are vital to our continued success.
Thank you for being part of our journey. We look forward to sharing more with you in the months and years ahead.
Warm regards,
Ilia Karatsoreos, PhD
Professor and Chair