Madison Hamby, Ph.D.The UAB Comprehensive Diabetes Center welcomes Madison Newberry Hamby, Ph.D., a postdoctoral fellow who joined the laboratory of Kirk Habegger, Ph.D., in January 2026. Get to know a little about Hamby in the following Q&A.
What’s your hometown?
Prattville, Alabama.
Where did you receive your education and training?
I received both my Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Biological Sciences from Mississippi College in Clinton. I finished my Ph.D. at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson in December 2025.
What are your areas of research interest?
My overarching interests include central regulation of metabolic health. Specifically, I’m interested in the neural circuits that drive diet-induced obesity via modulation of energy balance, glucose homeostasis, and feeding behavior.
Describe your current project or focus in the Habegger Lab.
My project focuses on determining what neural circuits mediate anti-obesity drug effects on systemic metabolism and the mechanisms in which they do so.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I enjoy spending time outdoors with my husband and our dog (Moose). In addition, I’m an avid reader, amateur writer, and average home chef.
What is your favorite thing to do in Birmingham?
We recently moved to the area, so we are still getting acquainted with the city, but as of late, my favorite thing to do is attend comedy shows at the Faraway Theater.