Laura Ferguson, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor
Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies
Department of Psychiatry

Office Ι 3027A Thurston-Bowles Bldg, CB #7178
Email Ι lbferg@email.unc.edu
Office Phone Ι 919-445-0916
Lab Phone Ι 919-445-3862
Lab Website Ι Ferguson Lab
Biographical Sketch Ι Ferguson Biosketch

Research Synopsis

The Ferguson laboratory investigates the molecular and systems-level mechanisms that drive alcohol use disorder and related neuropsychiatric conditions. We are particularly interested in how communication between the brain and periphery influences vulnerability to addiction and shapes treatment outcomes. To address these questions, we combine computational, molecular, and behavioral approaches in both mice and humans.

Our work integrates multi-omics datasets, cross-species analyses, and gene network modeling to identify biomarkers of alcohol-related behaviors and reveal mechanistic pathways that can be targeted for intervention. A major focus is on developing transcriptome-guided biomarker panels and strategies for drug discovery and repurposing, with the long-term goal of advancing precision medicine approaches for addiction and co-occurring psychiatric disorders.

Publications

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