They say it takes a village to raise a child. But, did you know it also takes a brain that is constantly reshaping and rewiring to prepare for parenthood? These changes occur in brain regions related to parenting, but also in regions related to learning, memory, and mental health.

Dr Jodie Pestana is a behavioural neuroscientist researching how fluctuations in hormones during pregnancy influence the brain's ability to regulate mental health and respond to treatments. Driven by her passion for women's health, Jodie also investigates the impact of other experiences of hormonal fluctuations, such as the menstrual cycle. In doing so, Jodie hopes to create more evidence-based and tailored treatments for women with mental health conditions, which is important given that anxiety and depression disproportionally impact women.

Jodie completed her PhD in 2023, and is currently a postdoctoral researcher in the School of Psychology at UNSW. She is a proud advocate for women's mental health, delivering award-winning talks and eagerly sharing science with the public. As a lifelong soccer player inspired by the Matildas at the World Cup, Jodie is dedicated to encourage more women and young girls to kick down barriers and increase female representation in STEM and beyond.