Paul J. Massman

Paul J. Massman is an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of Houston, within the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences. He specializes in Clinical Psychology with a strong focus on neuropsychological aspects of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. His research leverages extensive longitudinal data from the Baylor College of Medicine Alzheimer's Disease and Memory Disorders Center, where he collaborates with Dr. Rachelle Doody and other investigators. He is also actively involved in the Texas Alzheimer's Research Consortium (TARC), contributing to statewide research on neurodegenerative disorders.

• Education: Ph.D. in Psychology from the University of Texas at Austin

Dr. Massman's research centers on the progression and heterogeneity of neuropsychological deficits in Alzheimer's disease. He investigates how biomarkers such as cortisol and inflammatory markers correlate with cognitive and psychiatric functioning. His work emphasizes the use of advanced statistical models, including individual growth curve analysis, to understand the trajectory of cognitive decline, particularly in relation to genetic factors like APOE ε4 and cognitive reserve indicators such as premorbid IQ and education.

His recent publications reveal a consistent focus on Alzheimer's disease progression, cognitive assessment tools (e.g., ADAS-Cog, Clinical Dementia Rating), and the interplay between biological markers and neuropsychological outcomes. The articles span top journals in neurology, neuropsychology, and geriatric psychiatry, reflecting a strong interdisciplinary approach. Themes include functional decline, motor deterioration in early stages, and the psychometric validation of cognitive instruments.

• No scientific awards or honors are mentioned in the provided text.

Dr. Massman teaches several key courses, including Physiological Psychology (PSYC 3341), Cognitive and Clinical Neuropsychology (PSYC 6331), Dementia (PSYC 7334), and Advanced Clinical Assessment (PSYC 7397). He does not currently advise new graduate students, as indicated by his statement that he will not be reviewing applications for the 2019-2020 academic year. There is no mention of specific grants or funding sources, but his participation in TARC suggests involvement in state-funded research initiatives. He does not appear to lead a named laboratory, but his collaborative work implies integration within larger research teams focused on Alzheimer's disease and cognitive aging.