Explore the Cognitive Rhythms & Computations Lab @ UNM!

In our lab directed by Dr. James F. Cavanagh at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, NM, we investigate questions of cognitive change and functions using brain imaging techniques such as EEG, MRI, and MEG.

Areas of Interest

Reward

The Reward Positivity (RewP) is an event-related potential component specifically evoked by positively valenced feedback.

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Frontal Theta

Our work in this field began in 2009 with the theoretical model of theta power signaling the need for control and theta phase synchrony communicating the implementation of control.

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Rodent - Human Translation

Electrophysiology is a promising common denominator for translational research. We test mechanistic hypotheses in rodents that are relevant for human clinical biomarkers.

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Multimodal Imaging

We combine EEG with multi-modal imaging (MEG, MRI) for methodological breadth and with computational modeling for theoretical depth.

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Podcast Feature: It's (Probably) Not Rocket Science

Goals vs Rewards: What We Can Learn from Positive Reinforcement

"James Cavanagh, a professor at The University of New Mexico, joins It’s (Probably) Not Rocket Science to discuss his recently published theoretical review about the Reward Positivity brain signal and its role in linking high level control and low-level rewards processes together. Cavanagh worked alongside Clay B. Holroyd from Ghent University on the review, which was funded by a grant looking into anhedonia—the decreased ability to experience pleasure as it relates to clinical depression."

Cognition in Parkinson's Disease

Our current study is investigating brain structural changes in Parkinson's disease that impact cognition, behavior, and mood...

Theta-frequency subthalamic nucleus stimulation increases decision threshold

"Executive functions are often impaired in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD), and these deficits can be predicted by decreased frontal cortical 4–8 Hz theta activity that is associated with cognitive control. Previous work has shown that stimulating the subthalamic nucleus (STN) at theta frequencies via deep-brain stimulation (DBS) can improve cognitive control. Here we tested the neurocomputational hypothesis that stimulating STN theta activity increases decision thresholds, supporting more deliberate responding and nuanced adaptation under task trials that require cognitive control..."

Latest Publications