The AML uses cognitive neuroscience techniques to examine how neuromodulators during motivational and affective states influence memory and decision-making. Our lab performs research characterizing memory encoding, consolidation, and retrieval processes during states of reward, novelty, and threat in healthy individuals. By studying behavior and neural systems we can indirectly assess how neurochemical systems (dopamine, norepinephrine, etc.) influence memory-related processes. Further, we use mechanistic models developed in healthy adults to better understand neurodevelopment and individuals at-risk for psychopathology.

Our research techniques are often based in animal models of learning and memory, and include behavioral manipulations, neuroimaging, psychophysiology, clinical models, sleep physiology, and computational modeling. The AML has four broad research arms: motivational influences on encoding states, exploration and active learning, consolidation and memory transformation, and memory-guided decision-making.

For example, we recently completed a study at the Eastern State Penitentiary's annual 'Terror Behind the Walls' to see how fear and anticipation impact memory. Participants navigated the haunted house, then a week later were scanned using fMRI, which allows us to probe neurobehavioral mechanisms underlying the retrieval of memory during naturalistic events.

The AML includes members from the post-doctoral level to undergraduate students, and provides opportunities to present at conferences and publish empirical research. Research assistants benefit from a mentor-based model and are taught how to design and run research projects, develop their research portfolio, and are encouraged to complete an honors thesis.

Lastly, we believe collaborations make science better. We have fostered relationships within Temple and with other universities in Philadelphia and beyond. An overarching ambition of the lab is to build a supportive community of individuals who are thoughtful in pursuit of knowledge and care about research. We accomplish this by learning sound laboratory skills and techniques and encouraging our lab members to be motivated to better understand the complexity of human behavior. It is also fun to study memory and emotions - we all have both!

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