Yuri Saalmann studies how information is transmitted between groups of neurons in critical brain networks during certain states — from anesthesia-induced fog to times of critical decision-making. The brain’s executive function enables us to solve problems and set goals, yet its workings remain largely a mystery. Saalmann uses state-of-the-art techniques to take a closer look.
The assistant professor of psychology arrives at UW-Madison from Princeton University, where he was conducting research in the Neuroscience of Attention & Perception Laboratory. He took a break from his work to tell us about his research, his plans for his first Camp Randall experience and more.
Saalmann
Q: Tell us about your research.
A: I investigate how neural networks support cognition. Executive brain functions, such as attention, rule processing and working memory, enable you to flexibly adjust your actions according to context. Damage to a number of different brain areas (e.g., in frontal cortex) can give rise to severe deficits in executive functions, making problem-solving and goal-directed behavior difficult.
Q: How do you peer into the brain to see these neural networks at work?
A: I use electrophysiology and neuroimaging techniques. The neural processes in these brain areas, and how these areas communicate with each other, are still only poorly understood. To investigate, I use magnetic resonance imaging techniques (functional and diffusion MRI) to identify brain areas that are interconnected and communicate with each other. Second, I use multiple electrodes to simultaneously record the electrical activity from this network of brain areas in subjects playing video games that test executive functions.
Q: How did you become interested in this field?
A: I became interested in neuroscience when I was an undergraduate student, after observing the effects of neuroactive substances. Only on others, obviously.
Q: Why are you excited to be at UW-Madison?
A: I’m looking forward to working with colleagues and students in the Department of Psychology and the Brain Imaging Core of the Waisman Center.
Q: What courses will you be teaching?
A: Neuroscience. Not all of my courses have been finalized, so I will not be teaching until the spring semester: Psychology 386 - Topics in Psychology for Honors Students and Psychology 411, topic TBD.
Q: What can students expect in the classroom?
A: I want students to learn, develop and use neural models to explain and predict (with varying degrees of success) what they and others think and do in all facets of their lives.
Q: Do you have a favorite part of campus?
A: My lab first. Memorial Union Terrace after.
Q: What is the best thing you have done in Madison so far?
A: March for peace down State Street.
Q: What’s the sporting event you’re most excited to attend?
A: News of the Badgers and Packers losing on the same weekend filtered through the cabin of my flight to Madison last year. With passengers on the verge of tears, I saw complete strangers supporting each other. I think I need to see a UW football game.
To meet more new faculty members, see our full list of Q&As.