Rebecca Geiselmann, B.Sc., M.Sc.

PhD project

As a doctoral candidate in the CVBE lab, my research delves into the neuro-cognitive underpinnings of social interactions, bridging interactions with both human and non-human agents like Artificial Intelligence. My dissertation focuses on how social contexts influence the perception of agency, specifically examining motion-based actions in these entities. To address this question, I use a multidisciplinary approach that integrates philosophical inquiry, cognitive theory and modeling, along with psychological and potentially neuroscientific techniques, including eye-tracking. This integrative approach not only advances the theoretical framework of perception but also addresses key practical implications, including ethical considerations in AI interactions and strategies for effective science communication. Under the supervision of Prof. Ophelia Deroy (LMU, Munich), Prof. Lasana Harris (UCL, London), and Prof. Paul Taylor (LMU, Munich), this project extends my previous collaboration with Prof. Harris exploring the neural mechanisms of dehumanization using EEG and f(MRI).

Beyond my doctoral research, I am actively engaged in science communication, notably curating the “Multisensory Maze,” an interactive installation that explores multisensory illusions. This project has been featured at venues such as the Biotopia Sense Festival Munich (2022) and the Cheltenham Science Festival (2023). Through these initiatives, I aim to foster public engagement with scientific concepts, demonstrating their relevance and application in everyday contexts.