About
My work focuses on neurotoxicology and behavior, primarily using rodent models. I am interested in the molecular and biochemical bases for inter-individual and inter-species differences in susceptibility to environmental chemical exposures, especially with regard to particularly-susceptible populations. I use transgenic and knockout mice and in vitro experiments to investigate these differences in chemical sensitivity. My current work focuses on the neurotoxicity of traffic-related air pollution.
I also manage the Rodent Behavior Core at the UW Center on Human Development and Disability. In this capacity, I have assisted investigators across many different UW departments to carry out, analyze, and publish experiments involving behavioral testing in mice and rats, with a common theme of addressing the cause and treatment of developmental disabilities. I have experience testing rodents in a number of behavioral domains, including learning and memory, anxiety-related behavior, motor functions, sensory functions and reflexes. Areas of interest: Rodent Behavior, Neurotoxicology, Air Pollution, Biochemistry, Environmental Health, Transgenic Mice.
Dr Cole has worked with DEOHS professors on laboratory work, is involved in student mentoring and advising, and he teaches graduate level coursework in the department.