My research falls within the broader area of social and affective neuroscience. More specifically, I investigate the brain basis of nonverbal perception with an emphasis on vocal expression and interpersonal touch.

Although we typically focus on what others say in an interaction, we are nevertheless sensitive to their nonverbal expressions. These expressions can be perceived without little or no awareness and powerfully influence our feeling and thinking. This influence can be studied using behavioral assessments (e.g., eye gaze) as well as measures of brain activity including the electroencephalogram (EEG) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Understanding how nonverbal signals shape ongoing and prospective mental processes in perceivers enables us to predict and modify their behavior.