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About Our Lab
How does the brain flexibly control what we remember, attend to, and feel in order to guide adaptive behaviour? At the Cognitive Neuromodulation Laboratory, we investigate the neural mechanisms through which cognitive control shapes episodic memory, attention, and emotion. We are particularly interested in how the brain suppresses unwanted memories, selectively retrieves relevant experiences, regulates affective responses, and adaptively prioritizes information in service of current goals.
Using complementary non-invasive methods—including transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), transcranial interference stimulation (TIS), transcranial direct-current stimulation (tDCS), EEG, MRI, and carefully designed behavioural paradigms—we identify and causally test the brain networks that support these functions. By combining brain stimulation with neuroimaging and electrophysiology, we aim to understand not only where and when cognitive-control processes operate, but also how they can be modulated.
Our goal is to uncover mechanistic principles of human memory, attention, emotion, and cognitive control, while bridging fundamental neuroscience with practical applications for cognitive health and well-being. Ultimately, we seek to inform approaches that strengthen adaptive memory function, emotional resilience, and flexible goal-directed behaviour.
Our Research Team
Ahsan Khan
Hi, I'm Ahsan, a neuroscientist captivated by what the brain does every second of our lives: encoding memories, generating emotions, and driving behavior. I combine neuroimaging and brain stimulation to uncover the mechanisms behind these deeply human experiences.
I completed my PhD in Biomedical Engineering and trained across neuroscience, psychology, and engineering. Along the way, I've held research positions at the University of Pennsylvania, University of Cambridge, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, and the University of Graz — experiences that have shaped not only my scientific approach but also my appreciation for the cultural dimensions of science and well-being.
I'm currently an Assistant Professor at the Academy of Wellness and Human Development, Hong Kong Baptist University, where I lead the Cognitive Neuromodulation Lab. Our work investigates human memory, attention, and cognitive control, asking how brain networks flexibly support these functions across the lifespan. Using noninvasive tools — TMS, TIS, tDCS, EEG, and neuroimaging — we test causal brain–behavior mechanisms to bridge basic neuroscience with real-world applications for cognitive health.
Yupeng LIU (Rainer)
Research assistant
Hi everyone, my name is Rainer, and I'm currently a research assistant at Hong Kong Baptist University, under the supervision of Prof. Ahsan.
I graduated from Hong Kong Baptist University with a Master's degree in Psychology and completed my undergraduate studies at Guangdong University of Technology. My research experience spans organizational behavior, mental health, and cognitive neuroscience, from qualitative to quantitative and experimental research. Now, I'm leading a study on emotional memory. Everything about the brain and emotions fascinates me. Also, I'm still learning everything about cognitive neuroscience and brain stimulation. Hope to exchange ideas and learn from anyone who joins our team.
Email: liuyupeng061@outlook.com
Aniza Niazi
Ph.D student
Hello, my name is Aniza, and I am currently a PhD student at Hong Kong Baptist University under the supervision of Prof. Ahsan Khan. I graduated from the University of the Punjab, Lahore, with an MPhil in Special Education and previously worked as a lecturer in the undergraduate Special Education program.
My research interests focus on improving educational outcomes for students with special needs and promoting inclusive educational practices. In my previous research, I used both qualitative and quantitative methods to explore educational challenges and interventions in special education. Currently, I am learning about cognitive neuroscience and exploring its applications in education.
Email: anizaniazi564@gmail.com
Xinzhi SHEN
Research assistant
Hi everyone, I'm SHEN Xinzhi. I graduated from the Mental Health stream of the MSW program at Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU).
My research and practice have centered on mental health interventions for vulnerable populations—for example, delivering CBT‑based psychotherapy programs for youth with special educational needs. Currently, I am particularly interested in how we can bridge psychosocial interventions with neuroscientific insights to better support emotional regulation and cognitive well‑being.
At this stage, I am deepening my understanding of cognitive neuroscience and its applications in mental health practice. I am truly excited to learn from and contribute to the work we do in the lab.
Email: 25461168@life.hkbu.edu.hk
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