Memory & Attention Laboratory
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​Memory & Attention Laboratory
​Current & Former Members

Primary Investigator

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Dr. Timothy Ricker

Ph.D. University of Missouri, 2013

My research follows two main directions. The first explores how humans maintain information across time and in the face of interfering tasks. The second examines the parameters and processes involved in creating stable working memory representations. I use behavioral experimentation, Bayesian estimation, and computational modeling to examine these questions.

Contact: Timothy.Ricker@usd.edu
Click here to download C.V.

Graduate Students

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Megan McCray

M.A. University of South Dakota, 2023

My interests include the study of cognitive load and multi-tasking and their application to critical environments. I am interested in developing risk mitigation tactics through cognitive research and the application of Human Factors principles. In 2019, I graduated from Marshall University with a B.A. in Psychology. I am currently pursuing an Ph.D. in Human Factors Psychology at the University of South Dakota.

Contact: Megan.McCray@coyotes.usd.edu
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Click here to download C.V.
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Victoria Jackson

M.S. Ruhr University, 2023

My research interest centers around working memory and how it supports task performance. I am particularly interested in cognitive load, multitasking, and how findings from such investigations can be used to inform human centered designs. I hold a B.S. in Psychology and M.S. in Cognitive science.

Contact: victoriaaba.jackson@coyotes.usd.edu
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​Dillon Quiñones

M.S. University of Illinois, 2023

My main interests include visual working and long-term memory, forgetting, and how differing manipulations of probability affect memory outcomes. I also have an interest in real-world application of psychological science (e.g., user experience research). I graduated from Purdue University (2021) with a B.S. in Psychology; minor in Philosophy, and the University of Illinois (2023) with a M.S. in Psychological Science. I am currently a Ph.D. student in the Ricker Memory & Attention Lab within the Psychology-Human Factors & Applied Cognition program at the University of South Dakota.

Contact: dillon.quinones@coyotes.usd.edu

Undergraduate Research Assistants

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Katie Roberson

I hope to explore the influence neurodivergence has on memory and cognition. I joined the lab to experience the research process firsthand. I am working towards an undergraduate degree in medical biology. After graduation I plan on attending medical school or pursing a graduate degree in Genetics or Neuroscience. 
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Kamila Haliru

My research interests revolve around exploring the relationship between psychological and neurological disorders and the impact they have on memory and cognitive functions. I am currently in the process of obtaining my undergraduate degree with a double major in neuroscience and psychology and I hope to further my education with a PhD in clinical neuropsychology.
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Nate Mungunkhet

I joined this lab to develop skills in analyzing academic articles while exploring my interests in clinical psychology, to equip myself with critical thinking tools and a deeper understanding of psychological research. I am interested in exploring topics related to unconscious influences on behavior as they pertain to the clinical subfield.

Lab Alumni

If your entry could use an update or if you don't see yourself on this list, send an email to Dr. Ricker and get that fixed!

Former Graduate Students

Kelly Cotton, Ph.D.
Postdoctoral Researcher at Albert Einstein Medical College 
Ph.D., City University of New York, 2023

Former Undergrad RAs

Kristen Quigley
Neuroscience student (PhD) at the University of Nevada, Reno 
B.S., University of South Dakota, 2022

Caryn Darmoni 
Dental surgery student (DDS) at New York University
B.S., City University of New York, 2020 


Alani Harrison
Physical Therapy student (DPT) at the College of Staten Island

B.S., City University of New York, 2019 

Nicholas Cirrone, M.D.
Anesthesiology Resident at Mount Sinai West and Morningside

M.D., SUNY Downstate Medical Center, 2023

William Frickenstein, M.A. 
High School Counselor in Staten Island, New York 
M.A. in School Counseling, Alfred University, 2021

Priscilla Hutchinson, M.S., OTR/L
M.S. in Occupational Therapy, SUNY Downstate.


Mabel Etuknwa, M.Ed., B.C.B.A.
Behavior Analyst at BehaviorCare Therapy
M.A. in Special Education, Texas A & M University


Our Lab in Previous Years

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  • Research
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  • Joining the Lab: PhD
  • Joining the Lab: Undergrads
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