Research Projects
The Toegel Lab is comprised of multiple research domains, which are studied in our different laboratories (described below). Our projects involve the analysis of behavior and clinical application of behavior principles to help improve lives and promote lasting behavior change. Students can gain hands-on experience in some or all of these laboratories. Each semester, all students across our laboratories participate together in laboratory meetings to discuss current research projects, conceptual issues, and popular topics in psychology and behavior analysis.
The Toegel lab is currently accepting undergraduate and graduate students.
To join the lab, click on "Join us" above.
The Experimental Analysis of Behavior Laboratory (TEAB Lab)
The TEAB lab uses laboratory-based research with rat subjects to understand behavior that is often characterized as problematic, such as failures in self-control, relapse, and behavioral disruptions caused by environmental changes. The laboratory also investigates principles that underlie effective behavior-change procedures and methods to improve their effects.
Current IACUC protocols: (1) Investigating Rat Performance in Reinforcing Environments, (2) Investigating Self-Controlled Choice in Rats, (3) Evaluating Drug Effects on Self-Controlled Choice in Rats, (4) Evaluating the Role of Signals on Pausing under Ratio Schedules, (5) Behavioral Effects of Dynamic Environments Involving Reinforcement and Extinction
In addition, The TEAB lab collaborates with the LaCrosse Neurolab on projects that evaluate the effects of chemotherapy drugs on performance during cognitive/behavioral tasks. Current IACUC protocols: Reversal Training in C57 and CD1 Mice
The Human Operant Performance Laboratory (HOP Lab)
The HOP Lab uses laboratory-based research with human subjects. Participants complete computer-based learning experiences. Currently, we are designing projects related to human-operant methodology, behavioral relapse, avoidance, and rich-lean transitions.
Current IRB protocols: (1) Evaluating Human Operant Performance Methodology on the Study of Avoidance, (2) Evaluating Human Operant Performance Methodology on the Study of Relapse, (3) Effects of Visual Impairment on Performance in a Driving Simulator Laboratory Experience in Psychological Research II
Recently, our lab (as Co-Investigators in collaboration with two other NMU labs) was awarded a Major Research Instrumentation award ($413,282) to acquire a high-density electroencephalogram (HD-EEG) system with high-density transcranial electric stimulation (HD-tES) neuromodulation technology and time-locked dual acquisition capabilities. We will be incorporating this technology into our relapse studies.
Download a copy of one of our human-operant programs (compatible with any PC): Find download here. This program is free for anyone, excluding use for commercial purposes (licensed by Dr. Forrest Toegel March 2022).
The Northern Center for Learning and Health (NCLH)
The NCLH applies operant principles to combat drug abuse and poverty, promote employment, and improve community health. Recently targeted drugs: opioids, cocaine, and alcohol.
This research is currently funded by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) and the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI).
Currently, there are grant-funded Research Assistant positions available for Master's students. Contact Dr. Forrest Toegel (ftoegel@nmu.edu) for more information.
Current IRB protocols: (1) Therapeutic Workplace for Homeless Adults with Alcohol Use Disorders, (2) Contingency Management to Enhance Office-Based Buprenorphine Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder, (3) Long-Term Treatment of Opioid Use Disorder
The Applied Behavior Analysis Lab (ABA Lab)
The ABA Lab uses both laboratory-based research and clinical field research to help improve clinical practice in Psychology and Applied Behavior Analysis.
Current research interests include caregiver and therapist training methods, assessment and treatment of challenging behavior, and topical issues in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities. Potential research locations include the ABA lab in the Psych Department and the BEAR Center, an on-campus clinic.
Current IRB protocols: Effects of Performance Feedback on Learning and Preference
