Vera Abeln

Vera Abeln is a researcher at the German Sport University Cologne, affiliated with the Institute of Movement and Neurosciences. Her work focuses on neurophysiological correlates of physical activity, particularly its impact on brain function and cognitive performance. She investigates how exercise interventions, gravitational conditions (e.g., space analogs), and isolation affect psychophysical processes. Her research contributes to improving health outcomes for populations such as astronauts, elderly individuals, and those with cognitive impairments.

• Education: PhD in Neurophysiological correlates of exercise (German Sport University Cologne, 2011), Diploma in Exercise Sciences (2006).

Her research interests include neurocognitive performance under microgravity, effects of physical inactivity during space missions, and exercise-based countermeasures for mental and physical health. Key projects include NEUROANALOGUE (assessing artificial gravity and isolation effects) and HI-Brain (studying high-intensity exercise impacts on ADHD).

Notable awards include the NASA poster prize (2022) and NeuroNRW Travel Grant (2006). She has published over 130 articles and actively engages in academic activities like conferences and workshops on sport science and mental health.

Her work emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches to understanding brain-body interactions, with applications in both space research and terrestrial populations.