Action Representation

This sub-topic comprises research towards the neural bases of motor control and about the mental representation of own as well as others’ actions.
• Investigation of mechanisms underlying the acquisition and modulation of shared representations of action using behavioural, neurostimulation and fMRI techniques.
• Using EEG, MRI and behavioural methods to investigate motor functioning before and after constraint-induced movement therapy in participants with hemiparesis after stroke.
• Developing imitation paradigms for hyperscanning protocols in action representation and gestural communication.
• Using EEG and TMS brain signatures of motor memory traces are investigated. Moreover, the neural bases of action inhibition are studied.
• Behavioural and EEG measures of response selection and inhibition, motor control while combining them with  motor preparation and action effect / feedback mechanisms in healthy participants and patient groups (patients with stroke and movement disorders, OCD patients, forensic groups).
• Studying the neuronal underpinnings of the subjective experiences related to movement (execution, imagery and simulation) in experts and non-experts using interdisciplinary approaches/methods and how these measures could be improved to enhance ecological validity of neuroscientific research.
• Understanding and training visuo-motor expertise.  This is explored by comparing elite, intermediate and novice sports players using a combination of fMRI and behavioural methods

Neuromodulators and Neuroplasticity

Within this subtopic research addressing the influence of nutrition, drugs, hormones and structural brain changes on behaviour and neural functioning is run.
• Understanding how sex-steroid hormones modulate neural and cognitive function. Specifically seeking a non-linear model for oestrogen and progesterone interaction.
• Investigation of the effect of glucose / breakfast on cognitive function, such as response selection, sensory processing, memory, selective attention, etc. With the use of EEG and behavioural measures (and fMRI / MRS)

Cognitive Control

The neural bases of attentional control and control functions in memory processes and perception are investigated, as well as brain correlates of behavioural control.
• Using behavioural and neuroimaging (MRS, DTI and fMRI) techniques to look at long-term outcome and cognitive performance after mild traumatic brain injury or concussion.
• Brain oscillatory correlates of working memory capacity, visual attention and central executive functions are studied. This is done with a multi-method electrophysiological approach.
• Using paradigms of selective attention, response selection, sense of agency and memory to investigate these processes in patient groups (patients with stroke and movement disorders, OCD patients, forensic groups). The main methods are behavioural and EEG measures.
• Understanding the influences that cognitive functions such as language and attention have on categorisation (esp. colour categories), perception and learning.  This work is conducted using a combination of behavioural and fMRI methods.
• Investigating the contribution of language, higher cognitive processes and low level perceptual mechanisms to categorisation. This research explores categorisation across development using behavioural and electrophysiological techniques such as eye-tracking and event-related potentials.