Neurocognitive Laboratory
The Neurocognitive Laboratory is directed by Sara Jo Nixon, PhD. Dr. Nixon uses neurobehavioral methods and models to examine the acute and chronic effects of alcohol and other drugs in her laboratory. Within her clinical research, her team also explores sex differences, the effects of age, and the import of ethnic/racial minority status.
Because of the complex nature of substance abuse, Dr. Nixon’s work uses comprehensive behavioral assessments including neuropsychological testing, brain electrophysiology (electroencephalography and event-related potentials), and clinical research interviews. In addition to neurobehavioral research, Dr. Nixon has sustained a strong interest in community outreach and education. Her continued commitment to community outreach is reflected in her on-going work focusing on the cognitive, psychological and social concomitants of substance use.
Personnel
Principal Investigator, PRofessor, Chef & Director
Sara Jo Nixon, PhD
Dr. Nixon’s clinical research program focuses on the neurobehavioral concomitants of substance use and abuse using both behavioral and neurophysiological methods. She and her team are particularly interested in testing conceptual models which might inform treatment and intervention efforts and in exploring issues of sex, age, and race/ethnicity.
Assistant Professor
Ben Lewis, PhD
Ben joined the Neurocognitive Laboratory in 2012 after receiving his doctorate from the University of Kentucky. His master’s research focused on neurobiological deficits associated with fetal alcohol exposure. His doctoral work involved development of novel medications for treatment of alcoholism using molecular, cellular, and preclinical behavioral models. He has been a member of the Research Society on Alcoholism since 2005.
Lab Administrative Coordinator
Lucy Meehan
Lucy serves as the Lab Admin Coordinator II for the Center for Addiction Research and Education in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Florida. In this role, she supports research operations and administrative functions critical to the advancement of substance use and mental health research.
