Jen’s research explores the nature of memory—how different brain regions form and store memories, and how those memories shape real-time thinking and behavior. As a scientist at the Rotman Research Institute at the Baycrest Academy for Research and Education, she leads a team that investigates memory using a multi-method approach, combining behavioral experiments, eyetracking, neuroimaging (MEG, fMRI), and computational modeling to gain a comprehensive understanding of memory processes.

Beyond advancing fundamental knowledge, Jen’s research has real-world applications. Her team is developing learning strategies to help older adults and individuals with amnesia mitigate memory difficulties. They are also showing how and why people with mood symptomatology—such as depression, anxiety, or stress—may be particularly vulnerable to memory impairments. They are also creating eye movement-based screening tools for early detection of memory impairments—offering a simple, at-home solution to monitor brain health and treatment efficacy.

Findings from Jen’s research have sparked new collaborations across disciplines, including organizational management and public policy. Partnering with faculty from the Rotman School of Management, Jen and her team are investigating how aging and brain health influence workplace performance.

As they develop eyetracking-based screening tools for memory assessment, important questions around data privacy and ethical use emerge. To address these challenges, Jen is working with faculty from the iSchool at the University of Toronto to establish guidelines for the responsible use of biometric data in cognitive research and healthcare applications.

Outside of science, Jen has a variety of interests. Throughout her life, she has participated in sports and endurance events (including track-and-field, cross country, basketball, court volleyball, and even rugby and GORUCK) to varying degrees of success, but always with an eye towards learning from the experience. She now regularly plays 2-on-2 women’s beach volleyball, and can occasionally be spotted running along the lakefront in Toronto. You can also find Jen on the Peloton and Concept2 leaderboards. She is a avid supporter of music, theatre, and the arts, and also enjoys reality tv and soap operas. During their respective seasons, you can hear Jen cheering loudly for the Toronto Raptors and Chicago Bears.

“If you ask me how I want to be remembered, it is as a winner. Is a winner somebody who has success and basically accomplished something or wins a game or whatever? That’s not a winner. You know what a winner is? A winner is somebody who has given his best effort, who has tried the hardest they possibly can, who has utilized every ounce of energy and strength within them to accomplish something. It doesn’t mean they accomplished it or failed, it means that they’ve given it their best. That’s a winner. That is what a winner is all about."

 - Walter Payton