Madison Dengel

My research interest lies in the neurological basis and treatment of anxiety disorders. Specifically, I am interested in the use of brain imaging, neuromodulation, psychophysiology, and psychological assessment to better understand pathological anxiety in the brain. I have worked under Dr. Ayelet Ruscio in the Boundaries of Anxiety and Depression Lab since my freshman year at the University of Pennsylvania, contributing to projects investigating the distinctions, overlaps, and interactions between anxiety and depression. 

Last summer, I worked with Dr. Nicholas Balderston in the Center for Neuromodulation of Depression and Stress, where I used transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and functional MRI to investigate the neural circuitry underlying anxiety and further develop neuromodulation-based interventions. This experience deepened my interest in translational neuroscience and in bridging the gap between basic research and clinical applications. Across my work, I aim to integrate rigorous neuroscience with compassionate, socially-informed approaches to mental health.

Outside of my research, I serve as a mentor with the Pennsylvania Prison Society, I am a community chair for the Penn Undergraduate Psychological Society, and I am the tech director for Bloomers Comedy.

• 2025 MindCORE Summer Research Fellow with the Balderston Lab
• Psi Chi National Honor Society
• PMG Leader