Cognition is the study of the mind — the goal is to identify the processes that help both humans and nonhuman animals acquire, retain and use knowledge. Cognitive science research in our department aims to understand more about perception, attention, learning, problem-solving and representation of the world. This includes how we perceive and navigate through space and time, how we communicate with one another, and how we reason and make decisions on a daily basis.
Research in this lab investigates topics related to comparative learning and cognition. We typically use zebrafish and rats for studies on spatial navigation, classical conditioning and behavioral pharmacology. Recent projects have looked at the role of perceptual cues in a spatial navigation task in rats, and how stress in zebrafish may be affected by alcohol.
How to apply
Dr. Rachel Blaser is not accepting any new research students for the 2021-22 academic year. If you are interested in discussing options for joining the lab in 2022-23, please email Dr. Blaser at rblaser@sandiego.edu for more information.
The LAMP Lab takes an interdisciplinary approach to studying auditory perception. The research encompasses speech, cross-modal and music perception using a combination of behavioral, cognitive neuroscience including EEG and computational modeling approaches. Recent projects have investigated links between auditory and visual perception, visual influence on speech perception, context effects on speech perception, how music choice impacts product perceptions, and links between music preferences and personality. For more information, go to the Language and Music Perception (LAMP) Lab website.
How to apply
Please email Dr. Laura Getz at lgetz@sandiego.edu for more information. You will be asked to complete a research assistant application form; the best chance of joining the lab is at the start of each semester.
The CoCoA Lab studies computational cognitive neuroscience from multiple angles. Our primary research focus is on emotional perception: what are the neural and cognitive algorithms that relate sensory and perceptual information to the emotions that we experience as we interact with the world? We combine behavioral studies run at USD with data shared from around the world, with a strong focus on programming-based tools like R and Python for data collection, management, and analysis. We also study the meta-science of how to train computational cognitive neuroscientists and support them as they conduct their research. For more information, visit the Computational Cognition & Affect (CoCoA) Lab website.
How to apply
Please read about the lab's current projects on the lab website, and then complete the research assistant application form. The most updated information about whether the lab is accepting new research assistants will be posted on the lab website and the application form.