Michelle Martel, Ph.D., professor and chair of the Department of Psychology in the UK College of Arts and Sciences, has been honored as a 2024-25 University Research Professor.

Her research examines hormonal effects on disorders related to impulse control such as ADHD and binge drinking in females. Martel’s research on ADHD and transdiagnostic externalizing problems, including substance use and conduct disorders, is supported by the National Institute of Mental Health, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development and National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.

Her innovative work on hormonal effects on impulsivity is leading to cutting-edge advances in personalized assessment and treatment. She joined UK in 2012.

Martel spoke with UKNow about her latest honor as a University Research Professor in this Q&A.

UKNow: What does it mean to you to be recognized as a University Research Professor?

Martel:  I am honored that the impactful nature of my research program is being recognized by the university and thrilled to be joining esteemed colleagues whose impact has been so honored. I have worked for a long time to advance our understanding of sex differences and women’s health across the lifespan, and it is very rewarding to now see that being recognized.

UKNow: How will the professorships program advance your research?

Martel: This award will allow me to extend my work to evaluate its implications on treatment outcomes such as whether medication for ADHD needs to be titrated across the menstrual cycle in women. In addition, this program will allow me to collect pilot data on other developmental periods such as adolescence and the postpartum period.

UKNow: How does your research address challenges facing Kentucky?

Martel: This research will clarify the role of hormones in impulsivity-related disorders such as substance use and ADHD in a chronically understudied population, women. Hopefully, this work will lead to more personalized treatments across the lifespan for women dealing with these conditions in Kentucky and beyond.

UKNow: What impact will your research have on Kentucky?

Martel: This work will draw more attention to understudied factors affecting women's health and hopefully lead to individualized treatment of ADHD and substance use for women in Kentucky. Such work may have direct clinical implications that can help our local communities through our clinical training program and other community outreach opportunities.