• Lab Home
• To Volunteer
• To Join Us
• Our People
• Publications

Welcome!

Our lab investigates which cognitive and neural systems decline and which are spared in the course of aging. We focus especially on implicit learning and memory which can occur without intent or awareness.  We are working to understand why some forms of learning and memory decline while others don't, how these age differences are related to changes in the brain, and how learning and memory can be maximized at all ages. Most of our work has used behavioral techniques, but we have begun to use neuroimaging techniques such as fMRI and DTI (Diffusion Tensor Imaging) as well.   Current research in our group is also examining the relation between different forms of implicit learning and

• genotype

• environmental factors (e.g., stress, time of day, sleep)

• individual differences (e.g., in reading ability, expertise)

For the past decade, all of our research has been done in collaboration with Jim Howard and his lab at The Catholic University of America.  Our work has been funded since 1978 by the National Institute on Aging, including two MERIT awards. 

Lab Address:
301M White-Gravenor Building (pictured above)
Department of Psychology
Georgetown University
37th & P Streets, NW
Washington, DC 20057-1001
Campus Map:  We are in Building 29.  The assigned parking for research participants is next door at Building 64 (Poulton Hall), and the G2 Metrobus stops between 59 and 60 on the map.

Lab Phone:    202-687-4099

Project Director:
Darlene V. Howard, howardd@georgetown.edu
Davis Family Distinguished Professor of Psychology

top of page