Dr. Michael Frank

Biography

Michael J. Frank is the Edgar L. Marston Professor of Psychology and a Professor of Brain Science at Brown University. His research combines computational modeling and experimental work to understand neural mechanisms underlying reinforcement learning, decision making, and cognitive control. He develops neural circuit and algorithmic models to examine systems-level interactions among multiple brain areas, focusing primarily on the prefrontal cortex and basal ganglia, and investigates the modulation of these regions by dopamine. His work utilizes a range of techniques including neuropsychological assessments, pharmacological manipulations, genetic testing, and neuroimaging to test theoretical predictions derived from his models. Frank has extensively published on topics related to decision making, memory, and the computational aspects of cognitive control, contributing to a deeper understanding of how these processes are impacted by neural and genetic factors. He is also involved in teaching courses related to motivated decision making and computational cognitive neuroscience, and he directs the Center for Computational Brain Science at Brown University.

Research Interests

Experience

Awards