Psychology Facilities

TMS and tDCS

We have dedicated laboratories for transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) which are used to identify the contribution of brain areas to cognitive processes, and also to treat patients with brain injuries or psychiatric conditions.

TMS uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain while tDCS delivers a low intensity electrical current to a specific area of the brain.

Facilities include: Neuroconn DC Stimulator (x3) (tDCS system) - Soterix Medical MxN-9 HD-tES Stimulator (High Definition tDCS system) - Magstim Rapid TMS system - Magstim Rapid 2 TMS system - Neuronavigation System

Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS)

This system allows us to continuously measure brain activity. It is a non-invasive imaging technique that is more flexible than MRI.

Facilities include: NIRScout88 incl TMS-compatible fibres (fNIRS system with 8 sources and 8 detectors)

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

We have the opportunity to obtain high resolution anatomical scans for research purposes via a cooperation agreement with the Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust. Functional magnetic resonance imaging studies can be realized via existing links with the York Neuroimaging Centre.

ELECTROENCEPHALOGRAPHY (EEG)

Students use EEG, which measures electrical activity generated by the brain, to learn more about cognitive processes such as sensory perception, selective attention and object recognition.

Facilities include: Brainvision actiCAP 64 channel EEG system (active electrodes) - Brainvision Analyzer software - BioSemi EEG system

The Centre for Health and Clinical Neuroscience

This is the doorway through which people beyond the University access us for our research and clinical expertise. We offer psychological assessments for a wide range of conditions, including problems related to obesity and eating disorders, and dementia.

Facilities include an observation suite where students can watch interviews, via camera or a two-way mirror, as well as nutrition and biometric assessment equipment to accurately measure weight, height and adiposity. We also have equipment to monitor blood pressure, heart rate and other indices of stress.

Audio laboratory

Our audio laboratory is equipped with a sound-attenuating audiometric test booth and associated hardware. It is used to study responses to sounds, including noise, speech and music.