Heloisa Alves

Heloisa Alves, PhD is an Associate Teaching Professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth's College of Arts & Sciences. With extensive academic experience spanning Psychology, Experimental Neuropsychology, and Cognitive Neuroscience, she teaches foundational and advanced courses including General Psychology, Cognitive Processes, Research Methods in Developmental Psychology, and Affective Neuroscience. Her work bridges theoretical knowledge with practical applications in understanding human cognition and behavior.

Education:

• PhD in Psychology (2013) - University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
• MA in Mental Health (2006) - Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ)
• BA in Psychology (2001) - Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro (PUC-Rio)

Heloisa's research focuses on the assessment of human performance through brain imaging, physiological, and behavioral techniques, with particular interest in how aging and physical activity affect structural and functional aspects of the brain. She has conducted extensive work on cognitive neuroscience methodologies including EEG, event-related potentials, and neuroimaging to understand brain-behavior relationships across different populations. Her research portfolio demonstrates a strong commitment to examining the intersection between physical health and cognitive function, with numerous publications on exercise neuroscience and cognitive aging.

Analysis of her recent publications reveals a consistent research trajectory focused on cognitive neuroscience applications across diverse populations - from children with ADHD to aging adults. Her work frequently examines the neural correlates of cognitive processes, particularly how physical activity and exercise interventions can modify brain structure and function. The research shows strong methodological diversity, employing both experimental paradigms and systematic reviews to address questions at the intersection of neuroscience, psychology, and health sciences.

Scientific Recognition:

• Fulbright Scholarship recipient

With 53 publications and over 8,400 citations, Dr. Alves has established herself as a productive researcher in cognitive neuroscience. Her collaborative work spans multiple institutions including the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology in Japan, where she is currently conducting research on reward sensitivity among children. Her research has secured support for various projects examining brain health, cognitive function, and the impact of physical activity across the lifespan.

Dr. Alves maintains active research collaborations with neuroscience and psychology researchers across multiple institutions, contributing to an international research network focused on understanding brain function through various methodological approaches. Her laboratory work integrates physiological, behavioral, and neuroimaging techniques to provide comprehensive assessments of cognitive processes in diverse populations.