Our lab studies the development, refinement, and interpretation of cognitive measures used in research and clinical practice. In particular, we seek to answer questions such as: Can cognitive ability be measured independently from cognitive effort? Can sub-components of ability be reliably dissociated? Is there an optimal level of task difficulty? Studies rely heavily on both psychometric and cognitive modeling, as well as on neuroimaging methods such as fMRI and EEG. Populations studied include individuals diagnosed with neurocognitive disorders such as dementia, schizophrenia, and traumatic brain injury.

Our Focus

We rely on methods and tool from statistics, cognitive psychology, and neuroscience to conduct our research. A primary goal is to develop computerized adaptive tests that can be used to improve the collection and interpretation of cognitive and brain imaging data in mental health research. Ultimately, we want to better understand the development, maintenance, and remediation of cognitive dysfunction that is associated with neuropsychiatric disorders. Specifically, we are interested in populations of schizophrenia, healthy aging, and dementia.