Join Cool Science for Science on Tap every 2nd Monday of the month upstairs* at Jack Quinn’s Irish Pub & Restaurant in downtown Colorado Springs. Presenters begin at 6:30 pm and typically speak for 60-90 minutes including Q&A, with food and drink available beginning at 6:00 pm. A wide variety of fascinating topics are presented by local scientists for informal discussion, and the relaxed atmosphere encourages anyone and everyone to come explore the latest ideas in science and technology. From practical to theoretical, the presentations and group interactions provide a fun and interesting way to gain an understanding of the world around us.
* unfortunately there is no elevator
Join Cool Science for Science on Tap every 2nd Monday of the month upstairs* at Jack Quinn’s Irish Pub & Restaurant in downtown Colorado Springs. Presenters begin at 6:30 pm and typically speak for 60-90 minutes including Q&A, with food and drink available beginning at 6:00 pm. A wide variety of fascinating topics are presented by local scientists for informal discussion, and the relaxed atmosphere encourages anyone and everyone to come explore the latest ideas in science and technology. From practical to theoretical, the presentations and group interactions provide a fun and interesting way to gain an understanding of the world around us.
* unfortunately there is no elevator
Next up: Monday, January 12, 2026 at 6:30 pm.
*** You can download the slideshow from this talk ***
The Microbiome-Gut-Brain Axis and Mental Health
Dr. Lori Driscoll, Colorado College Neuroscience Dept.
Summary: We are never truly alone! Trillions of microorganisms—bacteria, viruses, fungi, archaea—inhabit the inside and outside of our bodies. In the gut, microbes eat our food and produce chemicals that signal our health status to our brain, and our brain talks back. This microbiome-gut-brain axis influences immune and hormonal functioning, brain development, and mental health throughout the lifespan. Dr. Driscoll will share research on how the gut microbiome is established and altered as a result of our environment and diet, and how disruptions to the gut microbiome contribute to depression, anxiety, and senescence.
Dr. Lori Driscoll is Professor and Chair of Psychology and Neuroscience at Colorado College. She received her PhD in Biopsychology from Cornell University. Her research explores how experiencing adversity in early life influences the gut microbiome, social behavior, and the brain in adulthood.
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