Ph.D. 2008 University of Texas at Austin

M.A. 2003 Charles University in Prague

Dasa’s research focuses on how we build complex knowledge representations—such as schemas, cognitive maps or concepts—from simple learning experiences. Stacking memories as building blocks, we form knowledge that transcends direct experience, allowing us to use the memory for the past to guide behavior in the future. She is especially interested how the hippocampus—a brain structure critical for memory for individual events in our lives—interacts with the prefrontal cortex and other memory systems to support the flexible use of experience. Her primary research tools include computer-based experiments, formal models of behavior, and advanced functional MRI methods.

Troy Houser, M.S.

Troy received a B.A. in Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience from Temple University in Philadelphia, PA. He joined the Brain and Memory Lab as a graduate student in the Spring of 2022. His main focus is studying the neural basis of various cognitive functions, particularly memory, using neuroimaging. He is also interested in tracking the functional networks underlying abstract representations in the brain.

Cheyna Warner, M.S.

Cheyna received her B.S. in Psychology from the Pennsylvania State University in the Spring of 2023. As an undergraduate, she worked under Dr. Nancy Dennis in the Cognitive Aging and Neuroimaging Lab studying false memory. She joined the Brain and Memory Lab as a graduate student in the Fall of 2023. Her primary research interests are cognitive aging and memory, specifically looking at failures in typical memory processes.

Louisa Krantz

Louisa is an undergraduate student at the University of Oregon studying neuroscience and psychology. She is fascinated with behavioral and cognitive neuroscience and the intersectionality of memory and psychological disorders. After graduation, she plans to pursue her interests through a professional career in research.

Ava Feldman

Ava is an Undergraduate student majoring in Psychology and minoring in Interdisciplinary Cognitive Sciences. She is interested in the way that memory impacts development. Ava plans on going to graduate school and pursuing a career in child psychology.

Alexis East

Lexi is studying at the University of Oregon to earn a B.S. degree; majoring in business and minoring in chemistry. She is interested in how advanced neuroimaging can be used to understand the complex cognitive experiences and behaviors of humans. In her free time, Lexi volunteers at a local cat shelter and develops her plan to apply to medical school.

Karenna Johnson

Karenna is an undergraduate student currently exploring majors but is interested in studying Chinese and psychology. Intrigued by degenerative brain diseases, she wants to better understand how the brain functions to help work toward a solution for these illnesses. Karenna hopes one day to become a doctor.

Isabella Zuniga

Isabella Zuniga is an undergraduate student working towards a B.S. in both psychology and Neuroscience. She hopes to continue on to get a masters in psychology and eventually work in specialized therapy for high risk patients. Isabella is particularly interested in the science behind psychological disorders.

Sarah Bombeck

Sarah Bombeck is an undergraduate student at the University of Oregon, majoring in Psychology and minoring in Sociology. She is passionate about memory-related degenerative diseases and how neuroimaging can advance research in cognitive decline. After graduation, she plans to pursue a career in clinical psychology. In her free time, Sarah enjoys painting, photography, and cooking.

Brain and Memory Lab