Adele Diamond

Professor

Research Interests

executive functions
prefrontal cortex
dopamine
working memory
self-control
self-regulation
cognition
COMT gene
Sex differences
stress
ACEs
resilience
social determinants of health
ADHD
depression
PTSD
Physical Activity
the arts
mindfulness

Relevant Degree Programs

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Biography

Our work integrates behavioural, neuroanatomical, and genetic approaches to study cognitive abilities (called ‘executive functions’) dependent on prefrontal cortex (PFC) from their earliest beginnings throughout the lifespan in clinical and "normal" populations. Our methods include: neurocognitive testing, even of infants; functional neuroimaging (fMRI); preschool and school interventions; and molecular genetic analyses. We study the neural bases, genetic and neurochemical modulation, modification by the environment of executive functions and how they can become derailed in disorders. We hope our work might aid the understanding, prevention, and treatment of major mental disorders. Our work has already led to worldwide improvements in the treatment of a genetic disorder (PKU) and a developmental disorder (ADHD), thereby improving children's lives. Our research also has educational implications and has affected early education worldwide.

Research Methodology

behaviour
randomized control trials (RCTs)
molecular genetics
psychoneuroendocrinology
neuroimaging (fMRI)
mixed methods (quantitative & qualitative)

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Master's students
Doctoral students
Postdoctoral Fellows
2018
2019
2020

In traumatized youth, can prefrontal cortex communication with the amygdala be restored by a stress-reduction program (e.g., Niroga’s yoga-based mindfulness program)?

Are the benefits of music for improving executive functions (EFs), mood, and quality of life greater when the experience of listening to the music is socially shared?

Can the benefits of listening to the spoken word be as great as those of listening to music for EFs, mood, and quality of life?

Modeling gonadal hormone and COMT genotype modulation of the effects of mild stress on EFs pharmacologically with low-dose methylphenidate

Will individuals be more emotionally invested in EF training if they have a say in shaping the training activity and will that translate into greater EF benefits?

I am open to hosting Visiting International Research Students (non-degree, up to 12 months).

Graduate Student Supervision

Publications

Current Students & Alumni

This is a small sample of students and/or alumni that have been supervised by this researcher. It is not meant as a comprehensive list.

Daphne Ling

Doctor of Philosophy in Neuroscience (PhD)

Research Topic
The Neural Basis of Low-Dose versus Normal-Dose Psychostimulants on Executive Functions in Youth with Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder: A Randomised Controlled Trial
 
Adele Diamond's Profile
ORCID Profile
Other link

Membership Status

Member of G+PS

Program Affiliations

Neuroscience

Department(s)

Department of Psychiatry
 

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