M.Sc. Savanna Babu

Research Interest

I am a doctoral student in the Emmy Noether Group. My research focuses on visual perceptual learning and how it differs between young and older adults. I have a particular interest in the role of neuromodulators such as norepinephrine and glutamate in learning. To investigate this, I employ a multidisciplinary approach using psychophysics, pupillometry, magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Additionally, I explore whether neurofeedback training can enhance VPL in older adults. By understanding age-related differences in brain plasticity, I aim to develop strategies that enhance learning processes and cognitive adaptability in aging populations. My research is supported by the Associated Young Researcher Program of the Hector Fellow Academy. 

Professional Experience 

• Since 02/2025: Graduate student (Ph.D.) in the Emmy Noether group. University of Regensburg, Germany. 
• 01/2024 - 09/2024: Internship at the University Outpatient Psychotherapy Clinic at the Chair of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy (Prof. Mühlberger), University of Regensburg, Germany.
• 05/2021 - 08/2021: Internship at the Psychiatric Network Prenzlkomm, Berlin, Germany. 
• 02/2021 - 03/2021: Internship at the Center of Research and Health, Lome, Togo. 

Academic Education 

• 11/2024: M.Sc. Psychology. University of Regensburg, Germany. 
• 10/2021 - 11/2024: Studies of Psychology (M.Sc.). University of Regensburg, Germany. 
• 08/2021: B.Sc. Psychology. University of Regensburg, Germany. 
• 10/2017 - 08/2021: Studies of Psychology (B.Sc.). University of Regensburg, Germany. 

Theses 

• 11/2024: Master's thesis: “Pupil size change as an indicator of neuromodulation in task-irrelevant visual perceptual learning”
• 08/2021: Bachelor's thesis: “Secondary analysis of olfactory effects in color-specific visual search".