The neurocognitive mechanisms of repetitive negative thoughts (Wellcome Trust Mental Health Award, Feb 2026 - Jan 2031)
Selection of ongoing projects
The neurocognitive mechanisms of repetitive negative thoughts
In collaboration with researchers at the University of Oxford (lead PI: Prof. Mike Browning), ETH Zurich and the University of Exeter, we have recently launched a £5 million Wellcome Trust funded project on the neurocognitive mechanisms of repetitive negative thoughts (RNT). Using a combination of MRI, non‑invasive brain‑stimulation (transcranial magnetic stimulation and transcranial ultrasound stimulation), computational modelling and a novel pupil‑based biofeedback paradigm, the project aims to uncover the neurocognitive mechanisms that make RNT (rumination and worry) start and persist, and to test whether pairing brain stimulation with a simple cognitive‑training exercise can reduce these patterns. More information can be found at the Oxford news page, as well as an Osnabrück University press release and the Wellcome Trust grant summary page.
Relevant publications:
Algermissen et al. (2026). Low-intensity focused ultrasound to human amygdala reveals a causal role in ambiguous emotion processing and alters local and network-level activity. Neuron