Emotion-cognition interactions in aging.

While many cognitive functions like memory and attention decline with age, emotional abilities like emotion regulation remain intact or even improve across adulthood. These different developmental trajectories raise a number of interesting questions: Can older adults profit from emotional material when working on a cognitive task? Are older adults less impaired than young adults when working on a cognitive task under positive and negative mood states or acute stress?

A PhD project in this field will use behavioural and physiological measures (e.g. systolic blood pressure) to further our understanding on the interplay of emotion and cognition in aging by examining the role of specific cognitive task demands, motivational changes, the quality and strength of the mood state and interindividual differences. My publications in this area can be seen here: http://www.abdn.ac.uk/psychology/people/profiles/katharina.schnitzspahn.

Candidates must hold (or be expected to obtain) an Upper Second Class honours degree in Psychology or cognate discipline as a minimum requirement. Additional research experience would be an advantage. Applications must be made through the University of Aberdeen applicant portal: http://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply.php. Applications must include: 1) An on-line form completed through the applicant portal. 2) A project proposal, maximum length 1 x A4 page including background, aims and suggestions for 2-3 studies to address the aims. A reference list can be added on a second page if you wish. Applicants can liaise with the supervisor when developing their proposal. 3) Two academic references – please attach the references to the application or include full referee contact details. 4) A CV outlining your academic qualifications and research experience to date. If possible, it would be useful to add an academic transcript.