Michaela Rice

Background

About Michaela Rice

I am a 3rd year Cognitive Neuroscience PhD student at Colorado State University. My research focuses on how our emotions, pathologies, and mental states interact with our cognitive abilities. Further, I am interested in how neuroimaging can be applied to help us better understand the underlying physiology of cognitive deficits associated with various pathologies. I was first introduced to implications of how our environment affects our brain through research. For two years I investigated the effects of short-term video game exposure on cognitive control using electroencephalogram (EEG). Through this research project, I presented at three regional conferences in Delaware, OH, a national conference in Washington, DC, and received two awards for excellence in psychological research. Along with a host of analysis and technical skills, I have learned how to transform abstract questions into concrete, testable experiments. This project has given me the mind, creativity, and curiosity of a scientist. I can now eloquently and professionally communicate my thoughts and ideas, and I hope to continue developing my research skills throughout my career. I am currently continuing my education and research career as a doctoral student at CSU's Cognitive Neuroscience Program. In addition to this research experience, I have seen the clinical implications of how cognitive abilities can play a role in long-term negative outcomes. My work at the domestic violence and homeless shelters provided me with real world experience on the importance of maintaining and protecting cognition. It highlighted to me the need for a better understanding of how disordered brain functioning, caused by trauma, substance abuse, mental illness, or pathological aging, can interact with cognitive abilities and lead to a severe decrease in quality of life. My research experience has given me the background knowledge and abilities of a scientist, while my work at the domestic violence and homeless shelters has given me direction and passion in my research interests. My career goals are to work as a research scientist, leading projects that are focused on using technology and intervention strategies in a novel manner to support the physical, cognitive, and overall well-being of populations with a variety of pathologies and neurological disorders. If you're interested in learning more about my research experiences and interests, please reach out to me at mickeyarroz@gmail.com.