Neuroscience of Speech & Action Laboratory

Dr Helen Nuttall

Research in the laboratory focuses primarily on investigating the neural bases of speech communication. We are interested in studying how normal brains communicate, and also what goes wrong in the brains of people with speech and language impairments.

To study this, we focus on the entire auditory pathway, from the ear to the auditory cortex, and beyond. We look at how auditory areas of the brain interact with other, non-auditory areas of the brain, to help us understand the neurobiological network that subserves speech perception, and how the network adapts depending on the situational context. Some questions that we are currently researching include: How do sensory and motor brain areas interact during speech perception? How do descending auditory projections influence low-level speech perception? How can we use information about the ear and the brain to detect communication difficulties and help to restore them?

Aberrant Experience, Awareness and Emotion Laboratory

Dr Jason J Braithwaite

Our research examines the neurocognitive correlates underlying disorders in consciousness such as hallucinations, delusions and perceptual distortions. Examples include breakdowns in multisensory integration underpinning the out-of-body experience (OBE) and associated disorders in body image/perception, dissociative experiences, the aberrant experiences associated with depersonalisation/derealisation, and emotional disorders. These striking experiences are explored in non-clinical populations as well as patient groups. Overarching theoretical accounts currently being explored include theories on the role of cortical hyperexcitability underlying aberrant perceptions, Predictive coding and Disconnection accounts of failures in multisensory integration, and models of interoceptive awareness underlying the sense of ‘presence’ in self-consciousness.

Action Observation and Motor Imagery Laboratory

Dr Stefan Vogt

Our research focuses on the interplay between observing, imagining, and performing bodily actions, and we employ both neuroimaging and behavioural methods. For example, we explore the (clearly dissociable) neural substrates of imitation learning of spatial sequences and rhythms. On a theoretical level, we have recently proposed a novel interpretation of previous research on the human mirror neuron system, namely in terms of motor imagery during action observation (Vogt et al., 2013). Supporting evidence for this account comes from a growing number of studies, including behavioural and EEG studies from our group. In addition, we investigate the effects of action observation combined with motor imagery on learning by observing, e.g. learning cheerleading postures and learning guitar chords.

Hearing Research Laboratory

Professor Chris Plack

We use a combination of listening tests and EEG measures to investigate how sounds are processed by the auditory brain. We are particularly interested in how neural coding and hearing ability deteriorate with age. We are also interested in the effects of auditory training on the neural coding of musical pitch. Finally, in a collaboration with Roger Bucknall of Fylde Guitars, we are studying how the different woods used in construction affect the perceived sound quality of acoustic guitars.

Sir John Fisher Eye Movement Research Laboratory

Dr Trevor Crawford

Our neuropsychological research is primarily targeted on age-related disorders, in particular, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson's disease and Schizophrenia.

A major focus is to improve our understanding of the core cognitive features and developing new biological markers that will help doctors to improve their diagnosis of these disorders. We are working to discover an early cognitive marker of the disease and to track the changes in relation to the severity of the illness. If we are successful this will enable new treatments to be targeted at an early stage in the course of the disease. We have dedicated research laboratories at Lancaster University and an extensive network of collaborating hospitals and research centres in the north-west and nationally. This research network includes research assistants, clinical psychologists, consultant neurologists, psychiatrists, radiologists and neuropsychologists at Lancaster University and Lancashire Teaching Hospitals.

Language, Inner Speech, and Neuroscience (LISN) Lab

Dr Bo Yao

Our research at the LISN Lab delves into the intricate relationship between language, inner speech, and the brain to unlock the unique mechanisms that make us human. We aim to decode the dialogues of the mind by investigating the neurocognitive mechanisms that shape our thoughts, emotions, and perceptions. Employing a rich array of cutting-edge methodologies - from EEG and fMRI to eye tracking and machine learning - we provide comprehensive insights into the neural and cognitive processes underpinning language and thought. For example, we investigate how concepts and language structure shape the way we think, understand the types and roles of inner speech in cognition and the sense of self, and explore the spectrum of voice hearing from benign experiences to distressing auditory verbal hallucinations. Our research seeks to deepen theoretical understanding and has the potential for various practical applications, from informing educational strategies for reading development and creating neurocognitive assessments and early diagnostic tools for voice hearing.

Paediatric, Listening, Cognition and Neuroscience Laboratory

Dr Hannah Stewart

At the PELICAN Lab we study everyday hearing and listening in children. We work alongside the Lancaster University Babylab and have a dedicated paediatric auditory laboratory. We are currently working with primary school-aged children with normal hearing, hearing impairment and/or developmental disorders. To understand the underlying mechanisms of speech and non-speech listening we use behavioural and neuroimaging techniques alongside VR. We are especially interested in how children’s brains adapt to noisy environments and to using auditory technology, such as hearing aids.