Dr. Martinez-Rivera studies the behavioral, cellular and transcriptional processes of drug-associated memories. He combines the drug self-administration paradigm in rodents with RNA-sequencing, chemogenetics, electrophysiology, pharmacology and viral-mediated gene transfer approaches to characterize the neurobehavioral features of maladaptive seeking behaviors. In addition to the Henry Grass, M.D., Rising Stars in Neuroscience award, Freddyson has been recipient of several recognitions including the Neuroscience Scholar Program fellowship (SFN-NSP), ACNP travel award, CDI for Psychiatry award, and a Mentored Research Scientist Development Award (K01-NIDA). He enjoys participating in enrichment and diversity activities at Mount Sinai and he treasures the time with his friends and family, in particular with his wife and twin children.