Dr. Larson is always interested in graduate student applications.
He is specifically looking for applicants with a strong interest in research using electroencephalogram (EEG) and event-related potentials (ERPs) to study the interaction between cognitive control, food intake, and exercise, as well as the effects of acute- and long-term exercise on cognitive functioning. He is also pursuing future studies using EEG/ERPs with people who have experienced a concussion.
Successful applicants will have a strong focus on research skills and a history of good research experience (not necessarily EEG/ERP experience, although these would be a plus). Clinical neuropsychology applicants are also welcome, but those with a strong interest in research using EEG/ERPs to study the topics above will have the most success in applying to the lab.
Dr. Larson is looking forward to your applications!
The objectives of the Clinical Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuropsychology (CCNN) laboratory and research program revolve around cognitive control functions, with a focus on four key areas.
Firstly, Dr. Larson, students, and collaborators, investigates hypotheses concerning behavioral aspects (e.g., response times, error rates) and neural markers (primarily event-related potential [ERP] and functional magnetic resonance imaging [fMRI]) related to cognitive control. The goal is to unravel how the brain manages behavioral control, adapts in the face of conflict and errors, and the circumstances that influence the enhancement or compromise of cognitive control.
Secondly, seeking to comprehend the developmental trajectory of cognitive control component processes across the lifespan and their subsequent deterioration in cases of neurologic injury or psychopathology, such as traumatic brain injury (TBI), autism, depression, and anxiety. Understanding these neural processes can provide insights into cognitive rehabilitation, psychotherapy, and pharmacological treatments.
Thirdly, research delves into the role of cognitive control in exercise and food-related behaviors, exploring concepts like food-related response inhibition and the influence of cognitive control on food consumption, exercise, and obesity.
Fourthly, work is done to ascertain the psychometric properties of biological measures, particularly ERPs, with the dual aim of enhancing current research and paving the way for future clinical applications. Our commitment to psychometrics underscores the rigorous research and robust methodology that define our laboratory.