Neurochemical Basis of Motivation and Learning Laboratory

We are interested in the role of brain dopamine in learning and motivation. Dopamine activity is implicated in the reinforcing effects of cocaine, amphetamine and natural rewards like food, water and sex. Our laboratory examines the neurochemical bases of learning and motivation, particularly with respect to dopamine activity within its major brain target sites. Over the course of learning, as goal-directed behaviors become automatized habits, the neurobiological underpinnings of the behavior undergo important changes. What types of neurobiological changes occur as a goal-directed behavior becomes a habit?  What are the neurochemical events that contribute to the acquisition of habits? Some of our recent work has shown that while dopamine activity within key motivational regions - such as the nucleus accumbens - is necessary for the performance of a goal-directed behavior, dopamine involvement decreases as the behavior becomes a well-acquired habit.

Professor Horvitz is a faculty member in the Department of Psychology at City College of New York.
His mailing is: Dr. Jon Horvitz; Dept of Psychology, CCNY; NAC 7120;  NY, NY 10031

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Research Opportunities

If you are a PhD applicant and would like information regarding research opportunities in the Neurochemical Basis of Motivation and Learning Laboratory, please contact Professor Horvitz at: jon@horvitzlab.com

FInd out more about the Cognitive Neuroscience PhD program.  Applications to the Cognitive Neuroscience PhD program are processed through City University Graduate Center

Horvitz lab meeting information

Courses offered by Jon Horvitz at CCNY

Brain, Mind, Experience PSY254
Advanced Topics in the Neurochemistry of Learning 31114