The research in ELM uses electroencephalography (EEG) and EEG-derived event-related potentials (ERPs). This methodology directly measures and records the firing of neurons in the brain, and when recorded concurrently with behavioural measures of task performance, ERPs provide a fuller (i.e., both brain and behaviour) picture of the features underlying different arousal, mood, and cognitive states. The superior temporal resolution of ERPs allows for millisecond-by-millisecond assessment of neural activity, making this method ideal for capturing instantaneous changes in information processing.
ERPs are regularly used in psychological research as they provide valuable insights into basic cognitive mechanisms and higher brain functioning, long before the performance of an overt response. Accordingly, research utilizing EEG & ERPs has made significant contributions to our understanding of basic cognitive function, how drugs affect the brain and how brain activity is altered in the context of illness and adverse environments. These findings have been used to develop, implement and assess interventions that benefit Canadians, while also contributing to the overall advancement of science.
Meet the Directors of ELM: Dr. Derek Fisher and Dr. Christine Lackner
Meet the ELM Team
Learn about our research here