Jay Olson, M.Sc. is a PhD candidate at the Raz Cognitive Neuroscience Lab at McGill University (academic CV).
His research on decision making has shown:
The feeling of control over thoughts and decisions can be manipulated using suggestion.
Decisions can be strongly influenced without people noticing (CBC).
People have unconscious decision-making strategies accessible through subtle muscle movements.
His applied research has shown:
Light exposure at the right times can reduce jet lag (Scientific American).
In progress: “Placebo machines” (technological placebos) can reduce symptoms of behavioural disorders (CBC).
In progress: Bright light exposure can reduce fatigue and improve performance during night shifts.
Upcoming talks in Montreal:
Tue, 21 May 2019: Can a machine control your mind?. Presentation for Pint of Science Canada.
Thu, 23 May 2019: How hypnotisable are you?. Lecture and demonstration of hypnosis at McGill University.
Fri, 24 May 2019: Self-deception and social media. Presentation for the Quebec Anglophone Heritage Network.
Some of his studies are currently on display at the Smoke and Mirrors: The Psychology of Magic exhibition (until 15 Sep 2019) at the Wellcome Collection in London, England.
Jay also works as a consultant to reduce fatigue and improve performance of business travellers and elite athletes. He has worked with companies such as Goldman Sachs and the National Institute of Sports.
Contact Jay at jay@jayolson.org or +1 514 994 6194.