Associate ProfessorIan Johnston

----------Current Research Projects----------

1. Executive Function and Behavioural Self-Regulation

Exploring how executive control of behaviour is shaped by biological, psychological, and environmental factors across various domains of functioning:

• Investigating how ADHD symptoms and executive dysfunction contribute to the gap between behavioural intentions and real-world outcomes, particularly in physical activity and health behaviour change.
• Examining how social media use-especially short-form content platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels-interacts with attentional control and self-regulation in individuals with ADHD traits.
• Assessing the impact of diet (e.g., high-fat, high-sugar consumption) on impulsivity and decision-making, including cross-species comparisons (rat models and human correlates).
• Developing and applying models such as Temporal Self-Regulation Theory to predict behaviour change from individual differences in cognitive control and habit strength.

2. Spatial Cognition and Immersive Assessment Tools

Designing and applying novel spatial cognition paradigms to assess navigation, memory, and executive function in both humans and animal models:

• Developing an augmented reality version of the Floor Maze Test to measure spatial memory and route planning in ecologically valid, immersive environments.
• Conducting studies of egocentric vs. allocentric navigation strategies and their changes across the lifespan or in early-stage cognitive decline.
• Using virtual environments and wearable technology to create scalable tools for cognitive assessment and early detection of neuropsychological impairment.
• Supervising student-led projects using VR, smartphone apps, or AR tools for experimental spatial tasks, rehabilitation training, or remote cognitive screening.

3. Cognitive and Neurological Toxicities of Cancer Treatment

Understanding and addressing the cognitive and sensory side effects of chemotherapy and other cancer treatments:

• Investigating the effects of chemotherapy agents (e.g., oxaliplatin, docetaxel) on executive function, memory, and neuroinflammation in rodent models.
• Collaborating on translational projects aimed at identifying treatments to mitigate neurotoxicities, including anti-inflammatory agents, neuroprotective compounds, cannabinoids, and behavioural interventions such as exercise.
• Exploring gut-brain axis dysregulation as a potential mediator of treatment-related cognitive impairment.