Daniel Smilek

Daniel Smilek is a Professor at the University of Waterloo, leading the Vision and Attention Lab. His research focuses on understanding attentional engagement in real-world settings, including mind wandering, sustained attention, and media multitasking. He holds a BSc from McMaster University and advanced degrees (MA, PhD) from the University of Waterloo. His work bridges theoretical frameworks with practical applications, examining how attention shapes everyday experiences.

Key research interests include:

• Mind wandering mechanisms and consequences
• Vigilance and sustained attention over time
• Flow states and peak engagement
• Impact of media multitasking on cognitive performance
• Attentional errors and recovery processes

Funded by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC), his lab investigates attentional dynamics using experimental and naturalistic methods. Notable contributions include defining intentional vs. unintentional mind wandering and exploring pandemic effects on learning. He received the 2007 Outstanding Performance Award for his scholarly contributions.

Students interested in joining his lab can contact him via email or visit his office. His research spans educational psychology, cognitive neuroscience, and applied attention science, with over 150 peer-reviewed publications since 2000.