Our Team
Patrick Ledwidge, Ph.D.
Dr. Ledwidge is Assistant Professor of Neuroscience at Western Kentucky University and Principal Investigator of the BRAiNS Lab. He received his Bachelor of Arts from DePauw University and both his Masters and Ph.D. from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. His research investigates "cognitive intersectionality"- the ways in which cognitive systems facilitate v. compete for mental processing resources. He uses this framework to examine cognitive and neurophysiological recovery from sports-related concussion and risk prediction for musculoskeletal injury. The goal of his work is to develop real-world neurophysiological approaches to improve the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of sports-related injuries and neuropsychological disorders. He teaches courses in biopsychology, cognitive neuroscience, and neuropsychology. When he's not in the lab you can find him running, cycling, and traveling with his black Labrador, Cash.
Student Researchers
Kirstiana Brickman, B.A.
Graduate Research Assistant, WKU
M.S. Program in Psychological Sciences (WKU)
B.A., Siena College (NY) '17
Bailey Hall
BW Lab Manager
Majors: Neuroscience and Sociology
Graduation Year: BW '24
Research interests: Psychological and social impacts of brain injuries on athletes
Harry Costlow, B.S.
Research Assistant
Major: Neuroscience
Minors: Chemistry
Graduation year: 2023
Research Interest: Neuropharmacology and neuro degeneration
Ryan Guggenheim
Project Coordinator, ACL Project
Major: Neuroscience and Psychology
Graduation Year: BW '24
Research interests: Connecting how the brain works in relation to orthopedic injuries (such as ACL)
Angie Gentilin
Research Assistant
Major: Neuroscience and Psychology
Graduation Year: BW '24
Research interests: Mental health and developmental disorders
Bella Vaillant
Research Assistant
Major: Neuroscience and Psychology
Graduation Year: 2024
Research interests: Mental health and developmental disorders
Lauren Reid
Research Assistant
Major: Psychology, I/O Psychology
Graduation Year: 2025
Research interests: Social/emotional intelligence, leadership styles, group dynamics