Chloe Kennedy

Chloe Kennedy, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor of Psychology at the University of Sydney. Her research delves into the neural processes underlying emotional learning and memory, exploring how both personal and environmental elements can shape our memories and influence mental health conditions such as anxiety disorders and depression.

Chloe is especially fascinated by questions like "Why do some individuals develop anxiety disorders following a traumatic event?" and "What contributes to mood changes after significant life events?" She also ponders over "How do everyday stresses transform ordinary experiences into long-lasting emotional scars?" and "Why are these issues more prevalent in certain demographics?"

Her team investigates how interactions between neural circuits and stress hormones can either strengthen or weaken memory formation. They examine the process of memory reconsolidation – what happens when old memories are recalled and potentially altered – and they look into whether this process differs between various groups of people.

To explore these inquiries, Chloe's research incorporates a variety of methods: she uses behavioral assessments with rats to understand emotional responses; develops models of stressful situations to mimic real-life challenges; and employs advanced molecular techniques to analyze shifts in brain chemistry, signaling pathways, and genetic expression. All of this takes place in the bustling academic environment of Sydney, where her work is contributing significantly to the field of psychological science.

On a sunny Tuesday morning in March 2024, Chloe could be found in her lab, surrounded by eager students and cutting-edge equipment, working tirelessly to uncover the secrets of the human mind.