As a scientist, I work on model-based cognitive neuroscience projects that leverage ultra-high resolution neuroimaging techniques, such as 7 Tesla (T) MRI, to investigate the structure and function of small subcortical nuclei involved in learning and decision-making. Specifically, I aim to bridge cellular-level findings from animal studies to neural-level insights in the human midbrain and striatal regions. Additionally, I use 7 T quantitative MRI to investigate subcortical vasculature, mapping its physiology and exploring the venous contribution to the BOLD (Blood Oxygen Level Dependent) signal—a key factor in advancing our understanding of neural activity in the human subcortex.

Research methods

• Structural MRI
• Functional MRI
• Quantitative MRI (R1, R2*, QSM)
• Resting state functional connectivity
• Post mortem histology
• Ventral tegmental area (VTA)
• Midbrain
• Striatum
• Reinforcement learning
• Evidence accumulation models
• Subcortical vasculature