Lauren Belyea-Nisbet’s fascination with memory led her to pursue a research position.
Lauren Belyea-Nisbet (she/they) is a fourth-year Psychology major and a Research Assistant at the Memory and Imagination Lab, led by Dr. Daniela Palombo.
Dr. Palombo and the Memory and Imagination Lab investigates cognitive and neural factors associated with how we form and retain autobiographical memories and how this may differ across individuals. By combining cognitive and behavioural research with functional neuroimaging, particularly fMRI, and utilizing tools like virtual reality, the lab explores the neural and behavioural factors involved in memory.
In the lab, Lauren is involved in data collection, cleaning and analysis, as well as leading participants through surveys.
Lauren joins us for a Q&A to share her experiences and the insights she has gained as a Research Assistant.
What motivated you to apply to work as an RA at the Centre for Infant Cognition?
I’m fascinated by memory and I started through PSYC 240 research experience, but have stayed with the lab for almost two years now.
“I suspect the field of psychology will expand exponentially throughout my life, and no doubt the next few years, I think the curiosity of students will continue to inspire future studies and perhaps begin to look at the things no one has yet thought of.”
What intrigues you about research at this lab in particular?
Working in long term care home, I see people with dementia and observed the dramatic shift in memory with age or illness. I find it fascinating how some residents think they’re children, unaware of what they don’t remember. Aside from that extreme example, memory is so key to the human experience. It defines so many parts of us, perhaps our careers, our loved ones, and even our sense of self. I think understanding memory is key to understanding the human experience.
Do you have advice for other students who want to get involved in research?
Just get your foot in the door. Even if the project isn’t exactly what you wanted to do, every experience will teach you something, and you never know the door it will open.
What is your favourite part of working as an RA?
My favorite part was the people, all the lovely participants I’ve met, my fellow RAs and the lab supervisors. I have learnt so much, about communication, research and working as a team.
What do you do when you’re not in the lab or classroom?
I love to paint, sew, do embroidery and crocheting. I love nature, music, and cherishing the small joys of life, for example a home cooked meal with people you love.
How do you see this field of research changing in the next few months or years?
I suspect the field of psychology will expand exponentially throughout my life, and no doubt the next few years, I think the curiosity of students will continue to inspire future studies and perhaps begin to look at the things no one has yet thought of.
