As part of a series of lectures which offer an opportunity to hear about the research work of some of the newest Professors in the College of Social Science, Professor Alina Rodrequez will deliver a talk on 26th October.
Her talk is titled Combining Approaches: In Search of the Origins of Neurodevelopment.
Professor Rodrequez said: “The diversity of the human psyche has always been a source of intrigue. Are we a product of our genes or of our environment? Today, the belief is that we are a product of both, and that the interplay between environment and genetic factors varies across development.
“I will focus on the prenatal environment – the first environment to interact with our genes. This talk critically explores biologically plausible mechanisms and presents studies using a variety of methodological approaches, epidemiological, experimental, and molecular to examine evidence for prenatal programming of neurodevelopment: growth and development of the brain.
“Research provides evidence that the exposure to maternal stress, depression and obesity during pregnancy negatively contributes to child neurodevelopment, manifesting as behavioural, cognitive, and emotional difficulties. The goal of my research is to understand the underlying mechanisms and to identify markers of poor developmental trajectories so that they can be identified and targeted early on, which is crucial. Humans are the most plastic – or amenable to change – early in life, which makes early health promotion strategies efficient and cost-effective. The talk concludes by looking forward to my research agenda at University of Lincoln.”
The presentation will conclude at 7pm with refreshments and an opportunity for networking and to continue any discussions arising from the lecture.
This lecture is free to attend, however booking is required. Guests are asked to arrive for 5.30pm for a 6pm start. To find out more about the event and to register for a place, click here.
Please feel free to forward this invitation to any friends you feel may be interested.