Semantic Cognition Lab
Semantic Cognition Lab
People
Lab Director
Leo Fernandino, PhD - Associate Professor
My research uses computational and functional neuroimaging techniques to investigate how the brain processes language and represents concepts. I am particularly interested in how word meaning is encoded in patterns of neural activity, how these patterns are related to sensory-motor representations of the external world, and how this information is retrieved from memory during language comprehension. Answering these questions can lead to new treatments for language and memory disorders and inform the development of new AI systems based on explicitly encoded world models.
Research Staff
Tapasi Brahma , PhD - Research Engineer
I am a Research Engineer at the Semantic Cognition Lab where I am primarily involved in functional MRI data collection and analysis to study how our brains represent languages and concepts. I have experience in electronics, Data Science, and clinical/research stakeholder engagement. Along with my interest in the brain's immense potential to influence our abilities and personalities, I also like playing badminton, swimming, hiking, photography, painting, reading, and watching movies.
Joe Heffernan - Research Engineer
Eric Rodell, MS - Clinical Research Coordinator
Eric is a clinical research coordinator with a M.S. in Psychology from Northern Michigan University and a B.S. in Psychology from Wisconsin Lutheran College. In the Semantic Cognition Lab, Eric helps with the coordination of the lab by screening and recruiting participants, scheduling appointments, and collecting data along with any other tasks that the lab needs. During his spare time, Eric enjoys listening to neuroscience and psychology podcasts, playing Magic the Gathering, and spending time in nature.
Sidney Schoenrock, MA - Research Program Manager
Postdoctoral Fellows
Jia-Qing (Tony) Tong, PhD
I’m a neuroscientist fascinated by how the brain stores and uses information. I enjoy exploring challenging questions about the brain and finding creative ways to understand how it works.
Graduate Students
Jasson Crentsil - MD/PhD program, Biophysics
Sohi Subha - PhD program, Biomedical Engineering