I am a PhD student in computational neuroscience with a background in engineering and theoretical physics. My research includes providing mathematical framework to optimise the parameters of non-invasive brain stimulations with the purpose of improving Working Memory.

More specifically, I am interested in bridging between empirical data and computational models of large-scale brain networks by drawing implications from latent manifold of neuroimaging data. With insights from dynamical systems and complex system physics, I seek to put constraints on computational models of brain networks using the embedding and intrinsic dimension of Working Memory manifold.

I studied an integrated Masters in Cognitive Neuroscience and Psychology at the University of Manchester from 2019 until 2023. Here, I developed an interest in neuroimaging and undertook MRI and fMRI analysis projects in my 3rd and 4th year. This included my yearlong master’s project, employing fMRI analysis to examine negativity biases in depression when listening to music. Currently, I am working as a PhD student in the SpiN-LAB.

I am a theoretical neuroscientist with a specific interest in the neurochemical mechanisms that underlie plasticity. I use a combination of computational and neuroimaging methods to study plasticity in humans in vivo.

Gamze Kaplan, MA

Postgraduate Researcher - Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester

After completing my undergraduate degree in Special Education, I pursued a master’s degree in Early Childhood Education at Anglia Ruskin University. During my time there, I conducted research on the experiences of first-generation immigrant parents while accessing early intervention services for their children with disabilities. Currently, I am a PhD researcher in the Division of Psychology at the University of Manchester. My project focuses on studying the psychological impact of NF1 on both children and parents. Specifically, I am exploring how expectant parents with NF1 experience pregnancy, and the parent-infant interaction patterns of infants with NF1 and familial ADHD likelihood.

Jess is a Research Assistant with a background in Psychology. Jess holds a BSc(Hons) in Psychology from Lancaster University and an MSc in Clinical and Health Psychology from the University of Manchester. Jess has worked for the NHS within a learning disability and dementia service, and most recently worked as a Research Officer in Australia for the University of New South Wales. Jess is passionate about patient and public involvement and has extensive experience supporting people with lived experience to be involved and engaged in all stages of the research cycle. Through her research, Jess has been involved in developing a new model of preventive care for people with learning disabilities in Australia. Outside of work, Jess loves to read fiction, cook and try out new recipes, practice Pilates, and watch films.

I have joined the Spin-Lab in September 2023 as a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Neuroimaging and Computational Modelling. I have a background in undergraduate Psychology, where I developed an interest in neural basis of executive function, language, perception and wellbeing. I pursued my interests further with a Master’s degree in Neuroimaging for Clinical and Cognitive Neuroscience and followed by pursuit of a Ph.D. in Cognitive Neuroscience. During my Ph.D. I investigated how the relationship between structural and functional connectivity of the brain contributes to modelling of cognition. My current research focuses on modelling effects of non-invasive brain stimulation on functional connectivity during working memory in neurofirbromatosis type 1 (NF1) and neurotypical controls.