Welcome to the Borgland Lab

The major goal of the lab is to understand the neural signals and circuits underlying appetitive behaviours, those which increasing the likelihood of satisfying a need.

The laboratory uses synergistic methodologies such as slice electrophysiology, in vitro and vivo optogenetics, circuit tracing methods with translational behavioural models to explore how consumption of palatable foods, obesogenic diets or drugs of abuse rewire areas of the brain involved in appetitive cue learning, reward valuation, motivated behaviour and decision-making.

The Borgland laboratory is dedicated to providing a safe, inclusive and diverse environment that celebrates multiple points of view. We do not tolerate any form of demeaning, discriminatory or harassing behaviour and speech. We encourage individuals to be themselves, allow for free expression and exchange of scientific ideas, and to respect others. My hope is to create and environment in which every lab member is unhampered in achieving their potential.

The laboratory is located at the University of Calgary. The University of Calgary is located on the traditional territories of the people of the Treaty 7 region in Southern Alberta, which includes the Blackfoot Confederacy (including the Siksika, Piikuni, Kainai First Nations), the Tsuut’ina, and the Stoney Nakoda (including the Chiniki, Bearspaw, and Wesley First Nations). The City of Calgary is also home to Metis Nation of Alberta, Region III.