Five individuals and small teams have been recognized by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) for their contributions to creating a culture that values robust, high-quality neuroscience research. Among the recipients is Michela Marinelli, an associate professor of neuroscience at The University of Texas at Austin.
In her elective course Analytical Skepticism, Marinelli teaches students how to engage in and evaluate science effectively by emphasizing fundamental principles that enable accurate interpretation of scientific data in a world where inaccuracies, irrationality, and falsehoods abound. The course covers topics such as quantifying and communicating data, cognitive and scientific biases, and assessing probabilities, equipping students with the necessary tools to conduct scientific studies that are free from bias and yield reliable conclusions.
Marinelli stresses the importance of scientific rigor in all scientific information, stating that without rigor, the output is compromised. She notes that incorrect science is a form of misinformation that can be more harmful than misinformation from other sources, as people trust scientists to be credible and reliable sources of information. This underscores the significance of maintaining high standards of scientific rigor.
In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Marinelli is actively engaged in research on the neurobiological mechanisms of drug addiction. Her research explores age and sex differences in resilience to adversity in pursuit of rewards, the involvement of the lateral preoptic area of the brain in reward-seeking behavior, and the interactions between stress and dopamine in influencing addiction susceptibility.
As part of the Rigor Champions Prize recipients, Marinelli has received a $10,000 cash award. She has also been honored with a College of Natural Sciences Teaching Excellence Award for her outstanding teaching performance and has been recognized as part of the Texas Ten program organized by The Texas Exes for her lasting impact on alumni through her inspiring teaching.
The Rigor Champions Prize was established by NINDS to recognize individuals who contribute to fostering a culture that values robustness and quality neuroscience research. This prize serves as an inspiration for others working within this field to strive for excellence while maintaining high standards for accuracy and reliability.
