Jeffrey C. Zemla

Jeffrey C. Zemla is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychology at Syracuse University, part of the College of Arts & Sciences. His research focuses on semantic memory representation, causal reasoning, and cognitive aging, employing computational methods like Bayesian models and network science. He holds a Ph.D. in Psychology from Rice University (2015), an M.A. from Rice (2011), and a B.A. in Psychology/Linguistics from Rutgers (2007). Zemla has received grants including the Syracuse Office of Undergraduate Research & Creative Engagement (SOURCE) grant (2021–2021) and the Computation and Information in Biology and Medicine Postdoctoral Fellowship (2019–2020). His work explores how cognitive decline intersects with reasoning styles, particularly in mild cognitive impairment. Notable contributions include studies on heuristic thinking in aging populations and the impact of mechanistic framing on understanding. He actively serves on university committees and has been a media commentator on cognitive aging topics, including a podcast appearance on 'The Informed Patient.'