She obtained her PhD from the University of Vermont in 2004, and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania’s Center for the Study of Addictions prior to joining the faculty in 2009. Dr. Plebani has conducted research on the treatment of addictive disorders, including the evaluation of behavioral interventions for nicotine dependence, and pharmacotherapies for the treatment of cocaine dependence and alcohol dependence. Her current research interests include investigating the mechanisms of action of promising pharmacotherapies in human laboratory studies. A certified personal trainer, she hopes to combine her interests in order to develop health behavior promotion programs as substance abuse prevention. She is an outdoor enthusiast, a dedicated localvore, and an avid baker.