Robert T. Knight

Robert Thomas Knight, January 2015

Robert T. Knight is a prominent American neuroscientist and neurologist known for his extensive research in the field of cognitive neuroscience. He is a professor of psychology and neuroscience at the University of California, Berkeley.

Early Life and Education

Robert T. Knight was born in New York City. He completed his undergraduate studies at Cornell University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology. He then pursued a medical degree at the State University of New York Upstate Medical University. Following his medical degree, Knight completed a residency in neurology at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF).

Career

Knight began his academic career as a faculty member at UC Davis, where he conducted pioneering research on the prefrontal cortex and its role in cognitive control. He later joined the faculty at UC Berkeley, where he has continued his research on the neural mechanisms underlying attention, memory, and executive function.

Research Contributions

Knight's research has significantly advanced the understanding of the prefrontal cortex and its involvement in higher-order cognitive processes. He has utilized a variety of techniques, including electroencephalography (EEG), magnetoencephalography (MEG), and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), to investigate the neural basis of cognitive functions.

One of Knight's notable contributions is his work on the role of the prefrontal cortex in working memory and attention. His research has demonstrated how damage to this brain region can impair an individual's ability to filter irrelevant information and maintain focus on relevant tasks.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Knight has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to neuroscience. These include the National Institutes of Health (NIH) MERIT Award, the American Academy of Neurology's Wartenberg Lecture Award, and election to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

Personal Life

Knight is married and has two children. He is an avid supporter of the arts and enjoys playing the piano in his free time.

See Also

• Cognitive neuroscience
• Prefrontal cortex
• Attention
• Working memory
• Executive function