Jonathan Cerna

Jonathan Cerna is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Health and Kinesiology at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, affiliated with the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences. His research focuses on the neurophysiological mechanisms of mind-body practices like yoga, Tai Chi, and meditation, particularly their role in promoting healthy brain aging.

• Education: Ph.D. in Neuroscience (2025), M.S. in Nutritional Sciences (2021), B.S. in Dietetics (2018).

Dr. Cerna directs the Mind-body Integration & Neurophysiological Dynamics (MIND) Laboratory, employing multimodal approaches such as functional neuroimaging and computational modeling to study brain network dynamics modulated by lifestyle interventions. His work aims to develop personalized, scalable strategies for cognitive resilience in aging and clinical populations.