Herz Research

Noa Herz, PhD
Principal Investigator

Dr. Herz earned her PhD in Psychology through a research excellence track in Israel. She subsequently completed Postdoctoral Fellowships at Tel Aviv University and the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Herz has diverse methodological background with expertise in MEG, fMRI, rTMS, LFP electrophysiology, and deep brain stimulation. In June 2023, Dr. Herz established her own lab within Jefferson's Department of Neurology, where her research focuses on the electrophysiology of human memory.

When not studying the mysteries of the memory system, she’s still trying to figure out where she left her car keys.

James Bruska
Software Engineer

James Bruska is the owner and lead software engineer of Bruska Technologies LLC (bruska.tech) contracting with the Herz Lab. After having worked in computer security and chemical technologies, he fell in love with psychology/neuroscience (especially positive psychology and memory). He first worked in Dr. Michael J Kahana’s lab for two years and then branched out on his own by starting his own company. Now he provides support for multiple psychology/neuroscience labs. He leads or helps with developing closed-loop stimulation systems, 2D and 3D experiments, implementing lab data infrastructure, optimizing analysis code, training other lab members to write efficient/readable code, and even helps with hiring new programmers for labs. He hopes to continue doing this for a long time as each new project helps another lab contribute an exciting discovery to the field. His other pastimes include music, snowboarding, rock climbing, capoeira, eating, sleeping, and programming for fun.

Jackie Kim
Clinical Specialist, Research Assistant

Jackie Kim is a clinical specialist and research assistant in the Department of Neuroscience. In the Herz Lab, she assists in collecting and analyzing invasive EEG data from patients in the Epilepsy Monitoring Unit. Jackie received her B.A. in Philosophy and Biological Sciences with a concentration in neurobiology and behavior. Previously, she completed an honors thesis investigating how attention influences memory encoding using scalp EEG data. She is currently interested in understanding mind and brain-related disorders, from epilepsy to addiction, using cognitive neuroscience or more qualitative methods. Her hobbies include oil painting and hamster care.

Kazi Habib
Research Assistant

Kazi Habib is a research assistant in the Herz Lab, where he contributes to studies on the electrophysiology of epilepsy. Originally from New York City, Kazi holds a bachelor’s degree in Biology and History. Before joining the lab, he worked as a research assistant investigating the effects of oxytocin on social behavior. He is currently a medical student at Sidney Kimmel Medical College (SKMC). Kazi is passionate about combining his past experiences to better understand the mind and brain. In his free time, he enjoys basketball, kayaking, and spending time outdoors.

Andrew Labeeb
Research Assistant

Andrew Labeeb is a research assistant in the Herz Lab, where he contributes to studies on the electrophysiology of epilepsy and its relationship to memory function. Originally from the Lehigh Valley, he earned a bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience with a minor in Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Business from Saint Joseph’s University. He is currently a medical student at Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University.Before joining the Herz Lab, Andrew worked as a research assistant investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying stress and depression using mouse models. He is passionate about integrating his diverse research experiences to deepen our understanding of the brain and advance the field of healthcare.In his free time, Andrew enjoys working out, learning new skills, and spending time outdoors.

Semihan Adegbite
Research Assistant

Semihan is a medical student at Sidney Kimmel Medical College (SKMC) and a research assistant at the Herz Lab. Before medical school, she earned a BS in Chemistry-Biology and worked as a research assistant studying Parkinson’s disease-related changes in synaptosomal receptors following motor learning, fueling her interest in neurological disorders. Now, she is investigating the relationship between seizure onset zones in epileptic patients and psychiatric disorders. Outside the lab, she enjoys cycling, experimenting with new baking recipes, and unwinding with friends over reality TV.

Muskaan Uppal
Research Assistant

Muskaan Uppal is a research assistant in the Herz Lab, where she contributes to the data analysis of studies mapping out the pathway of memory. Originally from Collegeville, PA, Muskaan holds a bachelor’s degree in Pre-Medical Studies. Before joining the lab, she worked on various research studies, such as investigating the impact of dementia caregiving on adolescent development. She is currently a student at Sidney Kimmel Medical College (SKMC). Muskaan is passionate about the human experience and exploring the evolution of the human psyche. In her free time, she enjoys baking and loves a sweet treat!