Anne Walk

Anne Walk is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychology at Eastern Illinois University. Her work bridges cognitive neuroscience, developmental psychology, and health psychology, investigating how daily health behaviors affect cognitive and brain health across the lifespan using event-related brain potentials.

Education:

• PhD, Experimental Psychology (Cognitive Neuroscience), Saint Louis University, 2014
• MA, Clinical Psychology, Eastern Illinois University, 2009
• BA, Psychology, Eastern Illinois University, 2007

Dr. Walk's research examines the links between physical activity, diet, and cognitive/neuroelectric indices. She studies these relationships in diverse populations, including children and middle-aged adults, with a focus on attentional inhibition, motor planning, and cognitive flexibility. Her work often considers the role of adiposity and specific nutrients.

Analysis of her recent publications (2022-2024) shows a consistent focus on how weight status and dietary components (e.g., lutein, zeaxanthin) influence cognitive processes. These studies employ ERP methodology to uncover neural mechanisms underlying behavior, particularly in the context of health and development.

Scientific Awards: None listed in the available information.

Dr. Walk has supervised 3 students and teaches four courses. She has contributed to press coverage on brain aging and health, and her research has been covered by media outlets. Her work involves collaboration with researchers in nutrition, kinesiology, and neurology.