Scientist to Watch: Dr. M. Catalina "Cat" Camacho Is Revealing How Early Experiences Shape Future Mental Health

Fourth of Five 2025 Science News' Scientists to Watch
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Video screen capture of Dr. M. Catalina "Cat" Camacho, Neuroscientist at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis

Congratulations to Dr. M. Catalina "Cat" Camacho, Neuroscientist at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, who has been selected as one of the Science News Scientists to Watch 2025.

Dr. Camacho's research explores the critical intersection of early childhood experiences and lifelong mental health. Through interactive play and brain imaging, she seeks to understand how experiences during formative years influence anxiety, depression, and cognitive development. Find out how her work is informing when and how we can best intervene to support mental health across the lifespan.

Watch Dr. Camacho's 5-minute video to hear how her dedication to understanding children's worlds is transforming approaches to mental health care.

“Every kid is so different, and I love getting little insights into their worlds. You really do come to appreciate just how much kids grow in such a short amount of time—and how those early experiences shape who they become.”

Dr. Cat Camacho

Dr. Camacho's research combines neuroimaging with hands-on engagement, meeting children in labs, at home, and in their natural environments. As a first-generation college student whose own mother struggled with depression, she brings personal insight to her mission of identifying how, when, and for whom interventions can best bolster mental health.

For nine years, Science News has recognized early-career scientists who address major challenges. This year's Scientists to Watch features five researchers exploring black holes, moon formation, diseases affecting women of color, the impacts of Arctic climate change, and the childhood experiences that influence mental health.

Stay tuned for next week's email as we highlight our final exceptional Scientist to Watch: Marianne Falardeau, Polar Marine Ecologist at Université TÉLUQ, whose research is helping Arctic communities adapt to rapid climate change.

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