Uncovering the Brain

By Matt Hawkins

Researchers have analyzed human behavior for centuries; however, modern science has allowed studies to research the complex, mysterious brain processes that drive that behavior. Through the Center for Collaborative Brain Research (CCBR), Bradley faculty uncover how the brain process information in situations as disparate as job interviews and food consumption.

Bradley faculty highlighted five years of neurological research during Grand Rounds at Peoria’s OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in early 2015.

The CCBR, formed in 2010, brings together the brain research resources of Bradley, OSF Saint Francis Medical Center, Illinois Neurological Institute and the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Peoria. Researchers utilize functional MRI equipment to monitor subjects’ brain activity in the studies.

“This is the final frontier,” said CCBR co-director Dr. Lori Russell-Chapin. “The more we know about the brain, the more we can prescribe healthier interventions. It’s a wonderful tool for Bradley and the community.”

The collaborative effort united the efforts of four key players in Peoria’s medical community, which is the largest in the state outside Chicago.

“To be able to research these disciplines and partner with a team like this is rare for institutions like Bradley,” said Dr. Cheryl Sparks, assistant professor of physical therapy. “It opens a lot of doors, and I’m thankful for the collaborative relationship we have.”

Bradley faculty have completed four fMRI studies, which has led to several journal publications. Two focused on medical applications — alternative treatment for ADHD and spinal pain relief, while the others examined decision-making processes in job interviews and the effect of different food stimuli on the brain.

“It’s priceless to be able to do this,” said hospitality leadership program director Dr. Kara Wolfe, who conducted the food-focused study. “I’ve done lots of surveys on behavior, but nothing compares to the passion this sparked for me. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance.”

Psychology professor Dr. Allen Huffcutt used the fMRI to learn how the brain processes the most common types of job interview questions. This furthered a career-long interest in the psychology of the job hiring process.

“This shed insight, but it raised a lot of questions,” he said. “It’s wonderful to crack open a door on something even though it raised more questions than it answered.”