April 2005 - Amishi Jha

1) What are your research interests?

Neural bases of working memory and attention. In particular I am interested in understanding how these operations can be improved with training. One type of training protocol we have been investigating recently is the influence of mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) on the functioning of the attention system. Our studies suggest that  a subset of attentional systems are trainable with long-term meditation practice. In addition, our studies suggest that attention may mediate positive changes that accompany MBSR training, such as chronic pain

reduction, relief from anxiety, and improved resiliancy to stressful life events.

2) What do you like most about cognitive neuroscience?

I like being in  the field of cognitive neuroscience at a time when we know a great deal about the basic neural mechanisms that underly higher-order thought. My job, and I would argue the job of many researchers of my generation will be to investigate --not only the basic mechanisms-- but relate our knowledge about  basic mechanisms to study individual differences, enhancement in performance with training and/or psychopharmocologic interventions, and neural processes associated with inter-individual interactions (e.g., social cognitive neuroscience). Even though cognitive neuroscience is a rapidly evolving field, we can benefit from the view while standing on the shoulders of  giants of our young field.  I'm thrilled to be in a field that has, what Buddhist's call  "a beginner's mind". I see cognitive neuroscience as  flexible, full of possibilities, and unhampered by a long history that could  subvert or suppress innovative thought.

3) To date what is your proudest personal or professional achievement?

Being a mom and a scientist and having the courage to do both (simultaneously!) with determination, kindness toward myself, and enthusiasm.

4) In your opinion, what are some important issues in cognitive neuroscience?

Cognitive neuroscience has some edgy issues to sort out  For example, what will we do once we know the genetic bases of individual differences in attentional capacity? Since Johnny has the R7 allele, what reading group should he be in? The "Snails" or the "Roadrunners"?  How will our field contribute to educational policy when "neuro-tracking"  and  "brain-o-typing" are realities in educational contexts.

Should Johnny be medicated to "compensate" for his genetic deficiencies?

We are beginning to hear alot about cosmetic neurology (Chatterjee, 2004) and psychopharomocologic treatments used to get an academic edge. The same issues that have been long-debated in the context of sports regarding physical enhancement will play out in the realm of neural enhancement. What will cognitive neuroscience have to say about these issues?

5) Why are you a member of CNS?

I have been a member of the CNS since the first year it started. In fact, I remember quite clearly the effort I put into making t-shirts with my fellow graduate student Joe Hopfinger at UC-Davis  for the  inaugural meeting!   It is wonderful to be connected to a community of scientists with overlapping research interests and expertise in the many techniques cognitive neuroscience has to offer.

6) Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 

I hope to promote an emerging niche in cognitive neuroscience that links cognitive neuroscience with  mind/body medicine. I have aspirations of attracting clever colleagues to join me!  We are just beginning to see the links between neural health (health and functioning of the brain) and physical health (nonbrain!). Its a direction I am curious to pursue. Our field took the bold leap in the face of Cartesian Dualism to say the Mind and Brain are one! Now, we must take another leap to say that the brain and the body are indeed connected!