Michele D

PhD Research Project

Università di Chieti-Pescara • Full-time

Oct 2022 - Nov 2025 • 3 yrs 1 mo

Spearheaded a 3-year research program investigating the intersection of Neuroscience, Virtual Reality, and Behavioral Economics. My work focused on time perception mechanisms and how emotional states influence decision-making processes. Key Research Projects: Neuroscience & Time Perception (TMS): Designed and conducted a study on "The role of the right supramarginal gyrus in time estimation." Utilized Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) to investigate neural substrates of temporal processing. VR, Mood & Decision Making: Led an experimental study using 360° VR videos to modulate emotional states (positive/neutral). Analyzed the subsequent effects on Economic Delay Discounting and active time perception. Technical Skills & Methodology: Mastered experimental software (E-Prime, Inquisit, Qualtrics) for precise protocol design. Advanced data analysis using SPSS and R, managing complex datasets including physiological and behavioral metrics. Conducted rigorous literature reviews and synthesized findings for high-impact publications.

Visiting PhD Researcher

Universitat de Barcelona (UB) • Full-time

Sep 2024 - Oct 2025 • 1 yr 1 mo

Advanced research period focused on applied Virtual Reality for clinical and environmental psychology. Key Projects: Environmental Psychology & Consumer Behavior: Developed a VR study comparing Biophilic scenarios vs. Office environments. Studied if green interiors can induce healthier choices (budget allocation) and shifts delay discounting for food rewards. Clinical Applications (Body Image): Collaborated on research regarding body distortion in Eating Disorders, using VR to assess and treat attentional biases related to body perception. Core Activities: VR Experience Design (Unity/Figmin XR) for controlled experiments. Management of international data collection and troubleshooting of experimental setups.