SSHRC Postdoctoral Fellow Dr. Anja-Xiaoxing Cui is using opera to study how specialized training can shape cognitive functions and the brain.
Research topic
Research Description
As part of the Peter Wall Opera Project, I investigate how specialized training can shape cognitive functions and the brain. Opera trainees learn to do a number of different tasks at the same time, and by comparing them to students who learn similar or dissimilar skills we hope to identify which parts of opera training may impact neurocognition and brain structure and function.
Why did you decide to pursue a postdoctoral fellowship at UBC? Did you consider other opportunities?
I was alerted to posting for this postdoctoral position while I was completing my doctoral degree. I thought it was the perfect extension to what I was working on at that time, namely researching how we learn about music. Here, I get to explore what happens when people learn music. I have always been fascinated by the intersection of music and learning, and now I get to explore it from another perspective.
What specifically attracted you to your research group?
I was attracted to the idea of working with researchers from different departments. I strongly believe that by working interdisciplinary, we can explore topics more thoroughly and make them more relevant to more people. I was also excited about joining this research group by the prospect of learning new techniques--for example, I had never had the opportunity before to work with myelin imaging data.
What advice do you have for new postdoctoral fellows?
My advice for new postdoctoral fellows is to take advantage of the many different offerings that are tailored to new postdocs. Not only do you get to learn all sorts of skills but you connect with other postdocs in a new city.
What do you like to do for fun?
I like to play the piano and explore the city on foot or by bike.
What is the most enjoyable aspect of your postdoctoral fellowship?
As expected I am learning a ton of new things, and that's been the most enjoyable aspect. It is a great time to ask myself how best to address my research questions with all the new methodological tools in my arsenal.
What does receiving this award mean for your career?
Receiving this award felt like validation that the project I had proposed has merit. I am so happy to know that others are also interested to know what happens when you dedicate your time to learning music. I am excited to dig into this research question with the help of this award.