Human Performance

The focus of the Human Performance Laboratory is the enhancement of mental and physical performance under challenging conditions. Areas of study include:

1. Brain processes and physical performance in elite athlete and military populations
2. Peak performance, confidence, focus, and emotion regulation through mental training
3. Factors underlying effective team work
4. Cardiovascular and musculoskeletal fitness associated with high-level performance

Available technologies to investigate these phenomena include:

• Dense-electrode arrays for electroencephalography (EEG)
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Real-time source estimation algorithms of the brain while engaged in a virtual reality (or augmented reality) environment

Virtual Reality Facility

A Virtual Reality facility will allow for the measurement of motion and performance quality when challenged with routine, game-like, or battlefield simulations. Such a testing environment will be complemented by isokinetic dynamometry to assess integrity and force production of muscles at various speeds of contraction (e.g., before and after injury, and rehabilitation). Specialized computer software will evaluate and model force production during movement in various patient and athlete populations.