Yanqiu Tian is a FEIT postgraduate student currently studying her PhD in Information Systems, specifically in Brain Computer Interfaces (BCI) and cognitive neuroscience.
Yanqiu completed her Masters in Cognitive Neuroscience at Beijing Normal University. We recently spoke to Yanqiu to learn more about her studies, emerging research and technologies in BCI, and her experiences with WiEIT.
About her research on cognitive neuroscience and computer science
Yanqiu found BCI to be an exciting combination of her undergraduate degree in information systems and computer science, and her personal interest and research background in cognitive neuroscience. More recently, she has applied this in research investigating to build a BCI system integrated with various tools (with brain and physical signals recorded) to monitor cognitive performance and use external devices (e.g., virtual reality) to manipulate the information conveying to adjust the attention or cognitive performance. Her research has found significance in avoiding cognitive loss, especially when exposed to high-level workloads or stressful situations that might cause severe catastrophes (e.g., driving or piloting), and could be extended to many real-life scenarios. This research, conducted at UTS Tech Lab, involves recording an individual’s brain signals as they wear a cap with sensors while doing a task within a virtual environment.
The importance of mentorship
Yanqiu began her journey with WiEIT when she applied to the Women in STEM Research (WiSR) Program in 2021. Through WiSR, Yanqiu was paired with Prof. Valerie Gay, from the FEIT School of Electrical and Data Engineering, and was able to find clarity in her research. She reflected on how doing research during COVID can be an isolating experience. Inspired by how much she enjoyed this program, Yanqiu wanted to help others and joined the WiEIT Gender Equity Ambassador Program this year.
The WiSR Program made me feel connected and supported.
Yanqiu Tian
A final reflection
At the end of our chat, Yanqiu invited us to reflect on the importance of a life-work balance. She also highlighted the importance of reaching out to others. The WiSR program has given her the opportunity to reflect on her future and find the support that she needed.
I would like to encourage other PhD students to be more active and involved in a community like WiEIT and step out of their comfort zone for more connections and communication with peers. These can not only be good for your mental health but also for your research itself.
Yanqiu Tian
with Yanqiu
We hope you enjoyed reading Yanqiu's story!
Byline: Amber Rizvi, Gender Equity Ambassador and part of the Communications Team.
Interview: Amber Rizvi and Victoria Migueles, Program Officer.