SURF Mentoring

Potential projects/topics: At any given moment, our brains receive more visual information than we can effectively process. Due to computational and cognitive constraints, we must therefore use selective attention to process only a small amount of visual information at one time. Unfortunately, our ability to effectively deploy selective attention is often disrupted by irrelevant distractors that compete for limited processing resources. This research project will characterize the cognitive and neural processes that cause distractors to impair behavior.

Potential skills gained: Human electrophysiology (EEG); Scientific Computing (MATLAB); Project management

Required qualifications:

• Required skills: Interact professionally with human participants who are participating in EEG experiments; Strong attention to detail and record keeping; Strong communication skills to coordinate with research teammates; Experience with or willingness to devote time to learning scientific computing skills in MATLAB.
• Preferred course completions: PSYC 362 (cognitive neuroscience) or a similar course (e.g., NEUR 306; NEUR 362; NEUR 383; NEUR 416)
• Preferred majors: Neuroscience, Cognitive Science, Neuroengineering, Psychology, Computer Engineering

Direct mentor: Faculty/P.I., Graduate Student