Kittel-Schneider Lab

Professor Sarah Kittel-Schneider is a prominent figure in the field of psychiatry. Since June 2023, she has held the position of Chair and Head of the Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioural Science at University College Cork (UCC) in Ireland. 

Her research focuses on understanding the psychological and biological factors that contribute to mental health conditions, particularly those affecting women during and after pregnancy as well as the fathers, as well as disorders like ADHD and mood disorders. 

In addition to her role at UCC, Professor Kittel-Schneider serves as Co-Principal Investigator for Theme 3 of APC Microbiome Ireland.

This theme, known as the Gut-Brain Microbe Axis, explores how the trillions of microbes in our digestive system communicate with our brain. Understanding this connection is crucial, as it influences stress responses and is linked to conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, obesity, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). 

Through her work, Professor Kittel-Schneider aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms of mental disorders, amongst other techniques by using human-induced pluripotent stem cell models. Her goal is to develop new, personalised preventive measures and treatments. She collaborates across various disciplines and professions to achieve these objectives. 

Her contributions are instrumental in advancing our understanding of mental health and the complex interactions between our gut microbiota and brain function.