Pelle Wilbers

My PhD project aims to shed light on the brain mechanisms that underlie addictive behaviour, particularly related to relapse to alcohol use. To do this, I study the functioning of alcohol-related engrams in the medial prefrontal cortex on multiple levels. I will investigate the synaptic connectivity of these neurons, analyse their temporal activity patterns, and design interventions based on alcohol-induced synaptic proteome adaptations. By linking these experiments to the addictive behaviour seen in our animal model, we hope to further understand what gives rise to the persistent nature of alcohol use disorder.

I have a background in fundamental neuroscience and did my master’s here at the VU. My internships have focussed on addiction (BTN, VU) and the visual cortex (SILS, UVA).