Cognition in chemistry: Exploring how the brain encodes and manipulates scientific models

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In daily life, scientists and engineers use complex diagrams to model concrete things and simulate processes. Such models are essential in the field of chemistry where molecules and reaction dynamics are invisible even under the microscope, and the development of modelling technology is of high importance for innovation. Despite decades of research into the mechanisms of visual working memory and neural sensory processes, we still know little about how the brain encodes and manipulates even simple models in science, and less about the role of expertise. Our research program targets these questions using a novel combination of behavioural experiments, eye-tracking, and continuous brain scanning with electroencephalography (EEG) with the long-term goal of making major conceptual advances in the field of cognitive science. This can lead to practical innovations in visualization, modelling, and complex experiences like virtual or augmented reality which are relevant in diverse areas such as pharmaceutical drug design, military training, and science communication. This proposal outlines three connected streams of research that address fundamental research questions for understanding cognition of chemistry. Stream 1 will test the hypothesis that visual representations of molecules are encoded differently than those of chemical reactions and explore the role of expertise using eye-tracking technology. Stream 2 will study how the brain manipulates mental images of chemistry reactions and test the hypothesis that using mental imagery and drawing can improve memory of chemistry concepts. Stream 3 will combine behavioural assessments with continuous EEG measurement during rest and task to investigate the neural correlates of domain-specific conceptual knowledge. As the "central science", chemistry connects all science disciplines and the proposed research will form the basis of future studies into the cognition of scientific models. This multidisciplinary research program will enable trainees to develop into independent researchers and gain expertise in state-of-the-art techniques. Trainees will lead their own projects, developing and combining their knowledge of chemistry and cognitive science in a collaborative research environment.