Principal Investigator
Dr. Iris Berent, Ph. D.
My research seeks to unveil human nature and our intuitive understanding of it.
To shed light on human nature, I explore the human capacity for language using phonology as a case study. I examine whether phonology is constrained by abstract universal principles, and whether these principles are shared across language modalities—speech and sign. My approach is highly programmatic and interdisciplinary. I study diverse populations—adult speakers of multiple spoken languages, signed languages, children and infants—and a wide array of tools, ranging from behavioral experiments to brain methods.
A recent line of research asks how laypeople reason about human nature. My lab examines how our core intuitive knowledge shapes how we reason about what we know and who we are.
Curriculum Vitae
Lab Managers
Emily Inga
Emily Inga is an undergraduate student at Northeastern University studying Computer Science and Cognitive Psychology. With a passion for understanding both technology and the human mind, she is especially interested in using artificial intelligence to drive meaningful social impact. Emily is actively involved with the Latin American Student Organization on campus, where she helps foster community and celebrate cultural identity. In her free time, you can find her exploring the city or catching up on her favorite sitcoms
Research Assistants
Open Positions
Research Assistant
Undergraduates at Northeastern University can join our lab as volunteers or as part of Directed Study Research (PSYC 4991). The lab investigates human nature and our ability to reason about it. Responsibilities include recruiting participants, running participants in psychological experiments, and the preparation of experimental materials.
There is a required commitment of 7-9 weekly hours for 3 credits, including a weekly lab meeting (on Thursday, 3-4 pm). A strong GPA and some background in computer science, psychology of language, or cognitive psychology or linguistics are highly desirable. Preference is given to candidates who wish to enroll in research during both the fall and spring terms. Please contact Dr. Iris Berent.