Jason Tangen

Professor Jason Tangen is a Cognitive Science academic at The University of Queensland's School of Psychology, with a research focus at the intersection of human cognition and artificial intelligence. His work spans forensic science, decision-making biases, and AI-assisted learning.

With educational background from the University of Lethbridge (BASc in Philosophy and Psychology) and McMaster University (PhD in Psychology), he has been at UQ since 2006 after a postdoctoral fellowship at UNSW. His research spans four key areas:

• AI-Assisted Learning: Investigating generative AI's potential for personalized education and conceptual change
• Cognitive Biases: Studying judgment biases in forensic analysis and high-stakes decision-making
• Insight Experiences: Developing frameworks for understanding belief formation through “Aha!” moments
• Forensic Resilience: Collaborating with police and ambulance services on trauma response and cognitive performance

His recent publications (2022–2025) demonstrate consistent output in Cognitive Research: Principles and Implications, Psychological Science, and Forensic Science International: Synergy, with recurring themes of: visual discrimination patterns, expert-novice differences in perceptual tasks, forensic evidence interpretation, and AI's impact on human cognition.

Scientific recognition includes the UQ Award for Excellence in HDR Industry Engagement and Leadership. His research has directly influenced:

• Australian Federal Police's “Rapid Lab” processes
• Competency testing for fingerprint experts in Australia/New Zealand
• Victorian/NSW Supreme Court forensic testimony rules
• Ukraine's critical thinking education combating disinformation

He maintains active collaboration with law enforcement agencies and leads the Tangen Lab, focusing on empirical approaches to forensic science and cognitive technology applications.