Aziz-Zadeh, Lisa
Associate Professor of Occupational Science, Psychology and Neurology
The Center for the Neuroscience of Embodied CognitionWe explore how rudimentary sensory-motor areas may be intrinsically involved in processing aspects of higher cognition such as language, thought, emotions, empathy, and social communication. We study both typical populations and autism, using MRI and behavioral studies, also integrating microbiome research.
Baker, Laura A.
Gene-environment interplay in human behavior, including personality, cognitive and social development. Rich datasets from longitudinal twin study of risk factors for externalizing behavior problems available for analysis.
Barakat, Rita
Assistant Professor (Teaching) of Biological Sciences
My current research focuses on exploring the link between executive functioning and language, testing the "Bilingual Advantage" hypothesis using a computer-based version of the Stroop Task. My primary role within NGP and at USC is to teach undergraduate and graduate courses in neuroscience, cell biology and physiology, as well as provide curricular supportand advise graduate students. I am also the chair of the NGP Diversity Committee and participate in/ lead several DEI-focused initiatives at USC.
Brocas, Isabelle
I am a Professor at the University of Southern California and the co-director of the Los Angeles Behavioral Economics Laboratory (LABEL) and the Theoretical Research in Neuroeconomic Decision-making (TREND) Institute. My research revisits standard theories of decision-making and aims at better understanding how people make choices, what motivates them and what cognitive limitations prevent them from making rational choices.
Ching, Christopher
Assistant Professor Of Research Neurology
Dr. Ching’s research focuses on neuroimaging and genomic markers of psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. As a core organizing member of the Enhancing Neuro Imaging Genetics through Meta-Analysis (ENIGMA) Consortium, he designs and implements standardized processing and analysis techniques for large-scale neuroimaging studies. He leads the ENIGMA Bipolar Disorder Working Group, an effort pooling data and resources from around the world to improve our understanding of the biological processes driving bipolar disorder, and studies rare copy number variants like 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome to understand how genetic mutations can lead to increased risk for developing psychiatric illness. He leads several large-scale transdiagnostic neuroimaging and genomic initiatives using machine learning to map common and distinct brain and clinical factors across mental illnesses.
Christopoulos, Vasileios
Assistant Professor of Biomedical Engineering
Prof. Christopoulos' research focuses on understanding the neural mechanisms underlying higher-order cognitive functions, such as decision-making, motor learning, and motor control. In recent years, he has expanded his research to include clinical studies on patients with brain and spinal cord injuries. His work encompasses intracortical Brain-Machine Interface research in individuals with tetraplegia and the use of functional ultrasound imaging in patients undergoing surgery for brain and spinal cord disorders. His innovative research aims to bridge the gap between basic neuroscience and clinical applications, contributing to advancements in neurotechnology and neurorehabilitation.
