Rebecca Lundwall

Rebecca Lundwall is an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychology at Brigham Young University, affiliated with the College of Life Sciences and Neuroscience Center. Her research program examines cognitive development across the lifespan, with emphasis on attention mechanisms in neurotypical and clinical populations (autism, TBI, ADHD). She employs multimodal methodologies including neuroimaging (fMRI), genetic analysis, psychometric testing, and longitudinal designs to investigate how cognitive changes influence behavior and academic outcomes.

Education:

• PhD, Cognitive Neuroscience, Rice University (2013)
• MA, Cognitive Neuroscience, Rice University (2011)
• MEd, Counseling and Guidance, Brigham Young University (1990)
• BS, Pre-Physical Therapy, Brigham Young University (1987)

Research Focus: Dr. Lundwall investigates developmental trajectories of attention and cognition, with particular interest in genetic influences on reflexive attention, autism spectrum disorders (especially female presentation), and post-concussion cognitive outcomes. Her work integrates neuroimaging, behavioral assessment, and biomarker analysis to identify intervention targets. Current studies explore cross-cultural autism perceptions, mental health in neurodiverse populations, and bilingual education challenges for autistic students.

Publication Trends: Recent articles (2023-2025) demonstrate strong emphasis on autism spectrum disorders—particularly in females and gender-diverse individuals—with recurring themes in mental health comorbidities (self-harm, suicidality), cross-cultural parent perspectives, and attention measurement methodologies. Neurodevelopmental mechanisms are frequently examined through genetic associations, visual processing paradigms, and large-scale replications.

Professional Service: Ad hoc reviewer for multiple journals including Autism Research, Child Development Perspectives, and Infancy (2015-present).

Teaching & Mentoring: Instructs courses in Cognition, Cognitive Development, Child Development, Research Methods, and Writing in Psychology. Directs the Cognitive Development Research Lab (cogdevelopment.byu.edu) where she trains students in neuroimaging, programming, and advanced statistics.