Introducing New Graduate Student Hanna Dobson

August 14, 2024 - Shelly DeJong

Meet Hanna Dobson, an incoming graduate student in the behavioral neuroscience research area.

Name: Hanna Dobson (she/her) 

Hometown: Cass City, MI 

Education: B.S. In behavioral neuroscience with a minor in anthropology from Grand Valley State University, graduated April of 2024 

 

Tell us about your background/ experience. 

I began my undergraduate as a psychology major but quickly became interested in the physiology behind behavior and the complex inner workings of the brain. I have previously worked with Professor Xu at GVSU on her exploration of learning in zebrafish who have been exposed to heavy metals like lead and mercury. 

 

Why grad school?  

Besides being necessary for the type of work I'm interested in, I have always been a passionate learner, and grad school is a chance to further my education. I'm also excited for the chance to push myself and test my boundaries a bit. 

 

What do you hope to research here? 

Currently, the plan is to work as a research assistant for Professor Lonstein who focuses on maternal social behavior in rodents. I personally am very passionate about women's reproductive health and autism and hope I get the opportunity to explore these routes in some capacity as well. 

 

What do you love about Behavioral Neuroscience?  

I love that neuroscience, in general, provides insight into the mechanisms behind seemingly abstract thoughts and behaviors. It is a field that still requires quite a bit of exploration because it is so new, and I like the mystery behind that. 

 

What do you like to do in your free time? 

I am a devoted cat mom to a sphynx named Nyx, I like to go for runs, hikes, I enjoy reading, and listening to music, audiobooks, and podcasts.