Neuropsychology Research on Cognitive Functions

The NEWRO Research Foundation is supporting Dr Gail Robinson, a Senior Lecturer at the University of Queensland, to find out more about what brain areas control specific cognitive functions.

What are cognitive functions? These are your thinking skills! Every time you make a decision, cook, shop, walk, or think over a problem, a very complex cognitive process is taking place in your brain. This research aims to increase our understanding of the precise mechanisms involved in functions, and the controlling brain area, such as conversation speech. How do you know what you are going to say to your family or friends and why does your mind sometimes go blank?  

Dr Gail Robinson has practiced as a Clinical Neuropsychologist for over 15 years, primarily in London (UK) at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery. Since arriving in Brisbane 1 year ago, she has developed a collaboration with BrizBrain & Spine’s Dr David Walker and Nurse Practitioner Vivien Biggs to investigate cognitive functions in people with brain tumours.  

What is involved if you participate in the study? Completing a brief neuropsychology baseline and several new tasks focussed on specific cognitive functions (e.g., speech output). The results will help us understand more about cognitive functions. For individuals who participate in the study, feedback from the cognitive baseline will be available. This will include an outline of current cognitive strengths and weaknesses, the implications for everyday activities and management strategies.