Neuroscience and Neuropsychology

The Neuroscience and Neuropsychology group applies novel research methods including fMRI, EEG, MEG, TMS, and 3D body modelling in order to investigate the psychophysical and neurophysiological properties of human physical attractiveness and body image, the neural underpinnings of reading and visual word recognition, and the neural basis of semantic cognition, among others. The group is involved in research with clinical populations, for example, individuals with autism spectrum disorder, autism, and eating disorders. Researchers also use multimodal imaging/neuroscience methods to investigate topics across the lifespan such as self-generated thought, mind-wandering, creativity and how this is associated with wellbeing.  

The group consists of researchers who study the neural basis of cognition across the entire sleep wake cycle. Dr Katri Corneliessen investigates body image distortion in healthy participants and in eating disorders, using psychophysical, psychometric and physiological measurement techniques, with the aim of developing intervention regimes for alleviating body image concerns. Professor Piers Corneliessen focuses on examining the neural mechanisms underlying semantic cognition, as well as visual word recognition in normal and dyslexic readers using techniques such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, Magneto Electroencephalography and functional brain imaging. Dr Joanna Greer’s work focuses on the behavioural and EEG profiles that subserve executive functioning in typically developing individuals, along with the profiles that characterise subclinical and diagnostic traits of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Dr Peter Moseley’s research focuses on hallucinations and other psychotic-like experiences, in both clinical and non-clinical populations. He is interested in what these experiences are like for people (phenomenology), as well as understanding the cognitive and neural mechanisms that underlie them. Dr Nayantara Santhi’s work focuses on examining neural markers of human cognition through the lens of circadian and sleep physiology and using the knowledge as a gateway for managing health and wellbeing.