Nicole is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Kinesiology, the Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Program (INP), and in the George & Anne Ryan Institute for Neuroscience at URI. She completed her Ph.D. in Psychology at Northeastern University, in the Center for Cognitive and Brain Health. Before that, she received her M.S. in Psychology, and a B.S. double-majoring in Psychology & Exercise Sciences, at The University of Auckland in New Zealand. Nicole's research investigates the effects of health factors such as physical activity, fitness, and adiposity, on mental health, cognition, and brain structure and function throughout the lifespan. Outside the lab, she can be found coaching water polo, watching basketball, attending group fitness classes, running, and enjoying the outdoors.