Melissa Sharpe

Melissa Sharpe, a neuroscientist at the University of Sydney, dives into the fascinating world of dopamine and its multifaceted role in motivation beyond pleasure. She discusses the lateral hypothalamus as a key player in feeding behavior and learning associations. The conversation explores how impulsive decisions in addiction can affect long-term goals, revealing the complex interactions between brain circuits. Additionally, Sharpe shares insights from her academic journey across continents and the cultural differences in work-life balance between Australia and the U.S.