Dr. Ralf Schmälzle

Associate Professor

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Biography

Ralf Schmälzle is an Associate Professor in the Department of Communication at Michigan State University, where he serves as the Graduate Director for the M.A. program. He has an interdisciplinary background in communication science, health psychology, and cognitive neuroscience, focusing on the biological foundations of human communication. His research integrates advanced methodologies, including functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) and electroencephalography (EEG/ERP), to explore how individuals interpret and respond to health-related messages across media and interpersonal contexts. Schmälzle is the founder of the Neuroscience of Messages Lab and co-director of the Center for Avatar Research and Immersive Applications. His recent studies investigate the influence of artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR) on message reception and social interaction, aiming to enhance the understanding of communication's role in individual behavior and societal change. Ralf's commitment to the advancement of communication research contributes significantly to the fields of neuroscience and media psychology.

Research Interests

Experience

Associate Professor

2018-08-01 — Present

Michigan State University • East Lansing, MI

Associate Professor in the Department of Communication.

Courses

Introduction to Cognitive Science Neurocognitive Communication Media Neuroscience Special Topics in Neurocognitive Communication Special Topics in Health Communication Public Communication Campaigns Design and Analysis of Public Communication Campaigns Mass Communication and Public Health Think Tank: Communication as a Dynamic Process Social Influence and Conflict

Requirements for Michigan State University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Listening
Required:17
Reading
Required:17
Writing
Required:17
Speaking
Required:17
Total
Required:80
IELTS
Listening
Required:6
Reading
Required:6
Writing
Required:6
Speaking
Required:6
Overall
Required:6.5
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Psychology or related field At least 15 credits in psychology courses
Application Checklist
  • Transcripts
  • Letters of Recommendation
  • Statement of Purpose
  • CV/Resume
Specialization Notes

Department of Psychology