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.

Ben Chaloupka, M.S.

Ben received his B.A. in Psychology from the University of Illinois at Chicago. He worked in the UIC Memory Lab as a Research Assistant studying memory and future thinking with Dr. Karl Szpunar. He joined the Brain and Memory Lab in the fall of 2019. His primary research interests are in memory and consciousness, specifically studying the neural mechanisms that enable memory integration and complex memory formation. Outside of the lab, Ben spends his time rock climbing and hiking in the mountains.

Kyla Brannigan, M.S.

Kyla received her B.S. in Neuroscience from Georgia State University in 2021. After graduating, she worked as a post-baccalaureate researcher in the NIMH’s Lab of Brain and Cognition studying the neural correlates of emotional face processing. She joined the Brain and Memory Lab as a graduate student in the Fall of 2023. Her primary research interests are emotion, memory, and imagination, specifically looking at neural and physiological signatures of emotional mental imagery.

Shijing Zhou, M.S.

Shijing received a B.A. in Japanese and a B.S. in Psychology, as well as an M.S. in Psychology from the University of Oregon. She joined the Brain and Memory lab as an undergraduate honor student in 2018 and returned as a doctoral student in the fall of 2023. Additionally, she works at the Brain Electrophysiology Lab, where she contributes to the development of EEG-related medical devices as a Quality Management System Representative and Clinical Trial Quality Assurance Specialist. Her primary research focus revolves around sleep and memory performance in the context of aging and neurological disorders.

Riley Acker

Riley is a University of Oregon student pursuing a B.S. in neuroscience while minoring in chemistry. He is interested in the effects aging has on memory and the influence implicit memories have on behavior. He hopes to continue his education and obtain a doctorate degree. As an Oregon native, Riley enjoys spending his free time outdoors.

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.

Jenny Martin

Jenny is an undergraduate student majoring in neuroscience with minors in chemistry and biology. She is interested in the interplay between memory and our unique experience, as well as how it relates to sleep, nutrition and lifestyle practices. After graduation, she plans to attend medical school. She enjoys mountain biking, frisbee, a good kombucha and basking in the sun.

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.

Clara Neubert

Clara is an undergraduate student majoring in neuroscience and minoring in biology. She is interested in the concepts of memory and how it evolves/lessens with age. In the future, she is deciding between attending med school to become a doctor, or graduate school in hopes of completing a PhD. Outside of academics, she enjoys rock climbing, crocheting and generally being outdoors.

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.

Brain and Memory Lab