UCD School of Psychology Laboratories
Perception laboratory
Our laboratory investigates questions on human visual perception using a variety of techniques including psychophysics and multi-channel EEG. A main focus of our research is on social cognition, and includes research on face perception, on the perception of action and on the perception of ‘biological motion’. You can find out more about our research at the perception laboratory web site and copies of our recent publications here: http://www.ucd.ie/research/people/psychology/drnualabrady/
Eye-Tracking and Imagery Research Laboratory
In this laboratory, we investigate “cognition in action” or the mental processes involved in the learning and performance of complex perceptual-motor skills (e.g., golf putting, golf green reading). In particular, we are interested in understanding the attentional and mental/motor imagery processes that underlie expertise in skilled performance. We use converging research methods to explore our research questions. These methods include eye-tracking equipment (e.g., a Tobii T-60 fixed system and the Tobii Glasses mobile tracker) and dual-task experimental methods to measure attentional processes and a combination of psychometric and chronometric methods to measure motor imagery processes. We use motion analysis (e.g., SAM PuttLab – a 3D kinematic ultrasound system) to measure kinematic aspects of skilled performance and we also have an indoor golf-putting green (Huxley system). [Aidan Moran's staff page]
Neuropsychology laboratory
The Neuropsychology laboratory is well stocked with a good range of the latest standardized neuropsychological assessment tools, including computerized systems such as CANTAB. Researchers in the lab also have access, within the School, to physiological measurement equipment such as EEG and EMG. fMRI studies are facilitated through research links with TCIN and university hospitals. Within this lab, there is an active research programme covering diverse questions related to a number of neurological and neuropsychiatric conditions. For example, a programme of research is being undertaken in the lab to examine how and why adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder have elevated levels of co-morbid disorders. Clinical groups recruited to date include individuals with ADHD, substance misuse, depression and bipolar disorder. Assessments involve the use of up-to-date standardised neuropsychological measures. fMRI data have also been acquired and analyses are being conducted using the dedicated neuroimaging analysis system, which includes high processing capacity, extensive storage with back-up facilities, as well as 30 inch high resolution screens. A further programme of research is being undertaken to examine the nature of prospective memory impairments and mechanisms underlying these deficits in a range of clinical conditions including head injury, first episode psychosis, ADHD and chronic pain. Assessments involve the use of standardised neuropsychological measures, as well as assessment tools devised in our lab specifically for this purpose. [Jessica Bramham and Teresa Burke staff pages]
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