Home Department: Undeclared
Mentor: Anthony Wagner (Psychology)

"Attentional Rhythmicity with a 100% Valid Cue"

Haley’s research project addresses fundamental questions about the neurocognitive mechanisms of sustained attention. Recent theoretical accounts of attention suggest that attention, even when sustained, fluctuates rhythmically. Behavioral rhythms have been observed in various studies, often at the theta (4-8Hz) and alpha (8-12Hz) frequency bands. However, these studies are limited because the rhythms may reflect attention sweeping instead of intrinsic rhythms in sustained attention. Haley’s project uses a unique task directing participants' attention to a singular target location, encouraging participants to always sustain their attention. Using precise stimulus timing and EEG, the project explores whether sustained attention itself is rhythmic.