Experimental psychologists at work

The Cognitive Psychophysiology Lab

Welcome to the CPL page!

In the lab we use EEG (electroencephalography) to broadly study processes of emotion, attention, as well as cognitive processes of anticipation, uncertainty and mindfulness. We also record heart rate data (EKG) such as heart rate reactivity and variability to examine autonomic responses of cognitive functioning. Eye blink startle responses are also recorded to capture defensive reactivity during threat scenarios. As part of these studies, we are collecting behavioral data on trait mindfulness and intolerance of uncertainty, to further explore these topics.

We are currently running three major projects that are internally funded:

  1. Assessing individual differences in emotional learning

    • utilizing both aversive and appetitive, discriminant conditioning

    • recording EEG and EKG

    • assessing biomarkers of threat anticipation

  2. Predictors in dynamic shifts of attention

    • utilizing attention tasks

    • recording EEG and EKG

    • assessing attentional and cognitive dynamics during deep breathing

  3. Psychophysiology of fear of cancer recurrence

    • utilizing imagery paradigm and a threat uncertainty task

    • recruiting breast cancer survivors

    • recording EEG and startle

    • assessing threat uncertainty as it relates to fear of cancer recurrence

Check out our awesome undergraduate research assistants below!


 

Research Assistants

Constanza Legarreta

Constanza is a junior at the University of Tampa, majoring in Psychology (B.A.) with a graduation date of Spring 2025.

Some of my interests in the field of Psychology include Clinical Psychology, Developmental Psychology, and Neuroscience. I plan on attending a Clinical PhD program after graduating at the University of Tampa. Neuroscience has given me a unique and eclectic approach to my overall education and understanding of Psychology. The development of the brain and the way it differs in each person is fascinating. Combined with my clinical and developmental interests, understanding the brain has proven to be indispensable for me and the holistic approach that I hope to develop.

Contact: c.legarretarodriguez@spartans.ut.edu

Nina Capriglione

Nina is a sophomore at the University of Tampa, majoring in psychology (B.S) and aspiring to become a neuroscientist. Her graduation date is in the spring of 2027. 

Since a young age, neuropsychology has provided me with a unique perspective on my own reality and that of others. This fascination sparked an obsession, leading me to explore various paths within the field. Initially, I wanted to become a therapist, then a psychiatrist, and now I am working toward neuropsychology. My eagerness to create clarity and find answers for people has fueled my dream of eventually running my own lab and publishing research. After graduating from the University of Tampa, I plan to attend a PhD program to further my studies. Outside of academics, I enjoy playing volleyball and expressing myself through drawing and painting. 

Contact: nina.capriglione@spartans.ut.edu

Allison (Allie) Wieland

Allie is a senior at the University of Tampa pursuing a Bachelor of Sciences in Psychology and Forensic Science, with a graduation date of Spring 2025. 

After graduation, she intends on pursuing a PhD in Neuroscience. She has a great interest in neurobiology, specifically the cellular processes involved in neurodegenerative diseases. She is also interested in the neuropsychology behind traumatic brain injuries and CTE. She hopes to continue her career in academia as a professor, giving back to the field of Neuroscience. Aside from academics, Allie enjoys exercising and paddle boarding. She also aspires to learn how to DJ.

Contact: allison.wieland@spartans.ut.edu


Erin Hall

Erin is a junior at the Univeresity of Tampa, majoring in Biology (B.S.) with a graduation date of Spring 2025.

Psychology and the human mind have always been fascinating to me. As I further my education, I find myself increasingly interested in the biopsychology aspect and learning about how the brain and nervous system affect our behavior. After graduation, I hope to continue research in this field by continuing in a graduate program. I particularly want to explore research in neurodegenerative diseases and/or examining traumatic brain injuries post grad.

Contact: erin.hall@spartans.ut.edu

Sofia-Marie Cintron

Sofia is a sophomore at the University of Tampa, with a major in Psychology and a minor in Economics.

I have had a passion for making a difference in clinical settings and plan on going to medical school after undergrad. Some of my research interests within the field of Psychology include memory loss and diseases like Alzheimer's and dementia, psychopharmacology, the relationship between psychologic and physical pain, and holistic approaches to psychiatric care. Outside of academics I enjoy exercising, art and spending time with loved ones. 

Contact: sofiamarie.cintron@spartans.ut.edu


Lab Alumni


Sebastian Giarratana

Sebastian is a senior at the University of Tampa, majoring in Psychology (B.S.) as a pre-med student, with a graduation date of Spring 2024.

With a passion for neuropsychiatry, he plans to attend medical school after his bachelor's to become a specialist in the field. Sebastian's research interests involve neuropsychiatry, neuroscience, and functional medicine, with a specific focus on various topics related to the gut-brain axis and how the microbiota can impact overall human health. Outside academics, he enjoys cooking, reading, meditating, and exercising.

Contact: sebastian.giarratana@spartans.ut.edu

Madysen

Barnes

Madysen is a senior at the University of Tampa, majoring in Psychology (B.S.) with a graduation date of Spring 2024.

I am a swimmer student athlete with a passion for Clinical psychology specifically clinical neuropsychology. I find the areas of traumatic brain injury and seizures most fascinating and how they can create such cascading effects on an individual. I plan on attending a clinical masters program and/as well as a clinical PhD program to follow my undergraduate studies. Outside of swimming and psychology I have a knack for cooking, baking, spending time in nature and knitting.

Contact: madysen.barnes@spartans.ut.edu