Dr. Heidi Lesscher

Biography

Heidi Lesscher is an Associate Professor at Utrecht University, leading the Neurobiology Behaviour research group within the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. Her research interests primarily focus on the individual variation in susceptibility to mental health problems, particularly those that arise at a younger age in both humans and animals. The central theme of her career has been to understand and prevent the emergence of behavioral problems, ultimately contributing to the well-being of both humans and animals. Over the years, her research focus has evolved from neurobiology of addiction to exploring vulnerability and resilience, with a recent emphasis on the role of early development and cognitive control in behavior. Lesscher's lab currently studies various research topics including the role of risky play in cognitive control development, the age effects on the development of addictive behavior, and the neurobiological mechanisms underlying play behavior. She engages in interdisciplinary collaborations to address the challenges faced by children with chronic illnesses, emphasizing the importance of play in developmental health. Lesscher plays a significant role in projects aimed at promoting inclusive play for children with disabilities, highlighting her commitment to children's health and development.

Research Interests

Experience