Matthew Pelowski

Matthew Pelowski is an Associate Professor at the University of Vienna, affiliated with the Faculty of Psychology and the Institute for Psychology of Cognition, Emotion and Methods. He is a key member of the Cognitive Science Research Network.

• PhD in Information Science, Nagoya University (2011)
• MSc in Information Science, Nagoya University (2007)
• BFA in Studio Art (Oil Painting), University of Nebraska-Lincoln (2002)
• BJ in Advertising, University of Nebraska-Lincoln (2002)

Pelowski's research bridges neuroaesthetics and cognitive neuroscience, focusing on how art impacts well-being, empathy, and social development. His work employs advanced neuroimaging techniques like fNIRS and hyperscanning to study interpersonal brain dynamics during art appreciation, while also exploring the relationship between artistic creativity and neurodegenerative diseases.

Pelowski's recent publications reveal a strong focus on art's therapeutic potential, cross-cultural aesthetic differences, and temporal dynamics in art evaluation. His work has been recognized with prestigious awards including the APA Berlyne Award and the Alexander Gottlieb Baumgarten Award.

• American Psychological Association (APA) Berlyne Award (2020)
• Alexander Gottlieb Baumgarten Award (2016)
• Association of Media & Publishing Excel Awards Bronze Prize (2021)

As Consortium Leader for projects like ARTIS (Horizon2020) and Unlocking the Muse (FWF), Pelowski drives transdisciplinary research connecting art with societal challenges and neurodegenerative disease studies. His work has been featured in over 30 media reports, demonstrating significant public engagement and societal impact.