Bill Griesar, Ph.D.

I like teaching, and explaining how networks of linked neurons carry out complex cognitive behavior.  

My dissertation research in Behavioral Neuroscience at OHSU examined nicotine effects on spatial attention, time perception, and boredom in non-smokers. Some earlier (pre-2001) studies of nicotine had reported cognitive improvements, but assessed these changes in habitual smokers, where results may have been linked to relief from withdrawal effects.  I carried out this research in Dr. Barry Oken's lab...

In addition to working with students at WSU Vancouver, Portland State University, Oregon Health & Science University, and Portland Community College, I routinely bring along brains (rat, monkey, human) to K-8 classrooms at Sabin School in NE Portland, and to students at Jefferson, Parkrose, and other Portland area public schools.  

And if my son Jack (11) gets annoyed with his older brother Dominic (13), he blames it on his amygdala...

: )

Courses

Course ID	Title	Meeting Time	Location	Semester	Syllabus
Psych 372	Biological Basis of Behavior	Tu,Th		Fall 2012
Psych 265	Biopsychology of Alcohol and Other Drugs	Tu,Th		Fall 2012