Jay Olson, M.Sc. is a PhD candidate at the Raz Cognitive Neuroscience Lab at McGill University.
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.
In progress: Smartphone addiction is related to hypnotic suggestibility.
In progress: Mindfulness meditation can reduce test anxiety in students.
Upcoming public talks at McGill University:
Thu, 21 Feb 2019, 6pm–7:30pm: Persuasive public speaking in Leacock 232.
Thu, 28 Mar 2019, 5:30pm–8pm: How hypnotisable are you? in Leacock 132.
Wed, 3 Apr 2019, 6pm–7:30pm: Persuasive public speaking in Leacock 26. Registration link pending.
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 view his academic CV (PDF).