Check out our new blog post on how facial cues impact trust decisions.

I’m honored to announce that I have been awarded a 2024 Pilot Grant by the Scientific Research Network on Decision Neuroscience and Aging at The University of Texas at Dallas. This prestigious recognition supports our project aimed at understanding the changes in risk tolerance and decision-making in relation to cognitive aging and Alzheimer’s Disease. Our multidisciplinary approach combines computational modeling, virtual reality, and cognitive psychology to explore these vital aspects. This grant not only acknowledges our team’s dedication but also propels our efforts in advancing research critical for improving the lives of older adults and those with cognitive impairments.

Variability in human spatial navigation is the rule rather than the exception. Some people become lost easily and frequently, whereas others create remarkably accurate maps of their environments. Here, we provide an overview of the ways in which human navigators vary and a framework for how this variability can be explained. Overall, people show individual differences in navigation outcomes—can they achieve their navigation goals—as well as navigation processes—how they navigate. We also describe several levels of explanation for why people show individual variability on a task as essential as navigation.