Investigating age-related changes in brain function and cognitive performance using fNIRS
Dr Claudia Gonzalez as PI.
Projects within this theme are aimed at identifying and characterizing the brain function and cognitive changes (i.e., memory, attention) related to healthy aging.
We implement brain imaging and cognitive tests of varied levels of complexity to test the predominant theories of neurocognitive aging.
In the future, we aim to compare these findings with older adults that experience cognitive decline (e.g., MCI).
Naturalistic mapping of typical and atypical functional connectivity in human brain development.
This is part of a newly obtained New Frontiers Research Fund Exploration NFRFE grant ($250, 000).
Researchers: Jenni Karl, PhD (Co-I); Musfiq Rahman, PhD (Co-applicant); Claudia Gonzalez, PhD (Co-I).
We aim to co-collect brain imaging using fNIRS linked with behaviour in developing infants (6 mo to 2 yrs).
This research can provide further understanding of the brain-behaviour changes that occur in infant development.
Neural Correlates of Optic Ataxia in Adults & Children with Cerebral Visual Impairment
This is an ongoing collaborative project:
Jenni Karl (PI), Associate Professor of Psychology, Thompson Rivers University
Isobel Hay, Paediatrician, NHS Dumfries & Galloway
Claudia Gonzalez, Assistant Professor of Psychology, Thompson Rivers University
Uma Shahani, Senior Lecturer of Vision Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University
Laura Ward, Research Associate, Glasgow University
Gaze behaviour in expert and non-experts during and after fatiguing exercise
Collaborative project between Dr Claudia Gonzalez and Dr Mark Rakobowchuk (Science, TRU).
This project combined knowledge of physiology (Dr Rakobowuchuk) with sports psychology and cognition (Dr Gonzalez).
Student Researcher: Jost Hausendorf (Psychology Honours student, graduated from TRU 2024).
Population Health and Aging Rural Research (PHARR) Centre
Newly opened centre at TRU aimed at jumpstarting collaborative research in aging populations in rural settings.
Director: Juanita-Dawne Bacsu, Assistant Professor, Tier II CRC in Nursing and Population Health, School of Nursing, TRU
Researchers:
Wendy Hulko, Faculty of Education and Social Work, TRU
Claudia Gonzalez, Faculty of Arts, Department of Psychology, TRU
Anila Virani and Melba D’Souza, School of Nursing, TRU
Mark Rakobowchuk, Faculty of Science, TRU