Bill Griesar, Ph.D.

Courses Taught

  • SPHR 461/561 Neurology of Speech & Hearing

Professional Affiliation:

  • Washington State University - Vancouver

Contact Information:

Email:  bgriesar@pacifier.com

Education:

  • Ph.D., Behavioral Neurosciences, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon

 

Professional Background & Interests:

I like teaching, and explaining how networks of linked neurons carry out complex cognitive behavior.  My dissertation research in Behavioral Neuroscience at OHSU examined nicotine effects on spatial attention, time perception, and boredom in non-smokers. Some earlier (pre-2001) studies of nicotine had reported cognitive improvements, but assessed these changes in habitual smokers, where results may have been linked to relief from withdrawal effects.  I carried out this research in Dr. Barry Oken's lab... In addition to teaching at WSU and PSU, I routinely bring brains (rat, monkey, human) to K-8 classrooms at Sabin Elementary in NE Portland.  And if my son Jack (7) gets annoyed with his older brother Dominic (9), he blames it on his amygdala (..!)