Threat and Reward learning in Adverse Childhood Experiences

Objective

Childhood adversity is a major transdiagnostic risk factor for psychiatric disorders and affects around 50% of children worldwide. Despite its prevalence and impact, the psychological and neurobiological pathways linking childhood adversity to mental health outcomes remain poorly understood. Building on recent advances, this project will investigate fundamental learning processes, i.e., threat and reward learning, as key mechanisms underlying this association. The focus is on adolescence, a critical developmental window for the emergence of psychiatric symptoms. In a first work package, I will crucially add to the conceptual clarity within the field of childhood adversity by systematically reviewing existing theories and their evidence. Additionally, across two interrelated work packages, I will integrate experimental and neurobiological approaches in a developmental population to identify pathways by which childhood adversity increases risk for psychopathology. Building on my expertise in threat learning in childhood adversity, this fellowship will substantially broaden my expertise in multimodal data collection, advanced analytical techniques, and the management of large-scale studies with vulnerable populations. I will gain hands-on experience in open science practices under the guidance of a supervisor strongly committed to transparency and reproducibility, strengthening my scientific rigor and visibility. In addition, teaching activities and an expanded international research network will foster key transferable skills, enhance collaborative opportunities, and support future grant acquisition. Ultimately, this fellowship will provide the crucial foundation for my long-term goal: establishing an independent research lab dedicated to understanding and mitigating the impact of childhood adversity on mental health.