Highlighting Postdoctoral Researcher: Erin Bojanek, Ph.D., B.S. ('14)
Erin Bojanek's Research Unveils Insights into Visual Processing in Autism
Erin Bojanek, a clinical psychology doctoral candidate at the University of Rochester, is delving into the intricacies of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) through her research in the Frederick J. and Marion A. Schindler Cognitive Neurophysiology Lab. Her work focuses on understanding how individuals with ASD perceive and process visual information differently from neurotypical individuals.
Bojanek's studies explore the neural mechanisms underlying visual perception, often using techniques like EEG or neuroimaging to study brain activity patterns related to sensory processing. Specifically, she examines differences in sensory integration and visual attention in people with ASD, aiming to clarify the atypical visual processing pathways associated with autism.
One of the key aspects of Bojanek's research is the investigation into local-global processing in autistic individuals. Her study seeks to understand whether autistic children focus more on individual segments rather than the whole picture. This research could provide valuable insights into the unique ways autistic individuals process visual information, which can inform targeted interventions and support strategies.
Bojanek's interest in working with children was influenced by her mother, a special education teacher. Her research interest in autism was solidified by the mentorship of Tris Smith, PhD, a pioneer in autism research, during her undergraduate training. Currently, Bojanek is learning new techniques in her research in the CNL lab, specifically with EEG.
In her current study, Bojanek is working at an academic medical center that is also an Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center (IDDRC). She is an instructor in the CNL lab, where she collaborates with colleagues such as John Foxe, PhD, and Edward Freedman, PhD.
Bojanek's work under the guidance of her clinical supervisors, Laura Silverman, PhD, and Heather Adams, PhD, is playing an integral role in her learning. As she pursues her clinical psychology license, she is gaining expertise in autism diagnostic assessments.
Bojanek plans to continue a career with a research focus while maintaining a clinical component. Her research focuses on understanding the underlying mechanisms of sensory processing differences in ASD, contributing to a better understanding of sensory sensitivities and perceptual experiences in ASD. This work advances the knowledge of how altered neural responses during visual processing contribute to the cognitive and behavioral features of autism spectrum disorder.
Bojanek received her doctorate in Clinical Child Psychology at the University of Kansas. As she continues her research journey, her work promises to provide valuable insights into the complexities of autism spectrum disorder, paving the way for more effective interventions and support for individuals with ASD.
- Erin Bojanek's research in the field of health and wellness focuses on mental health issues, specifically neurological disorders like autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
- Bojanek's studies in education and self-development aim to clarify the atypical visual processing pathways associated with autism, which could inform health-and-wellness interventions.
- Her work on visual processing in autism also contributes to lifelong learning by unveiling insights into sensory integration and visual attention differences in ASD.
- In addition to her research, Bojanek is gaining clinical expertise in autism diagnostic assessments, intending to pursue a career with a balance between research and clinical practice.
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