Andrew C. Halley

Background

About Andrew C. Halley

I am a Project Scientist in the Laboratory for Evolutionary Neurobiology at the University of California, Davis. I direct several research projects aimed at understanding the function, connectivity, and evolution of the mammalian brain. The primary goal of my research is to understand how species’ differences in neurobiology allow them to evolve specializations in sensing the world and producing uniquely adaptive motor responses. In my current research, I design and perform experiments using a combination of microstimulation, electrophysiology, tract tracing, and histology. These studies have shown how unique mammalian adaptations, like flight and echolocation in bats, are supported by specializations in the organization of the neocortex and subcortical brain structures. I received my PhD from UC Berkeley in 2016 (Biological Anthropology), where my dissertation examined the evolution of embryonic neurodevelopment in primates. Since then, I have worked at the Center for Neuroscience at UC Davis, first as a Postdoctoral Researcher and now as a Project Scientist. I have over fifteen years of experience in research project management, including the design of experiments, grant proposals, budget management, data analysis (R, Python), and employee recruitment and training. I have extensive experience in summarizing project results and presenting them to diverse audiences, including conference presentations and the publication of results in top peer-reviewed journals. Publications: & hl=en & oi=ao