Stadtman Investigator
National Institutes of Health, NIDDK
Dr. Darcey is a neuroscientist and Registered Dietitian whose work examines how diet influences impulse control, habits, and brain neurochemistry. She earned her B.A. from the University of Pennsylvania, M.S. from Drexel University, and Ph.D. in Neuroscience from Georgetown University, and completed clinical dietetics training at the NIH Clinical Center. Using multimodal neuroimaging (fMRI, MRS, PET), her research links omega-3 fatty acids to prefrontal function and impulse control in adolescents and also demonstrates links between facets of dopamine signaling, adiposity and post-ingestive response to nutrients. Her overarching goal is to develop neuroscience-informed nutritional strategies that improve adherence to behavioral interventions such as weight management and addiction treatment.