Research Focus
I research the connection between our bodily awareness (interoception) and our state of mind while working (flow states), with a special focus on mental work. A great work experience happens when we are fully focused and engaged in a task. This is called the flow state and it leads to better performance, comfort, motivation, and reduced stress. However, the role of internal body sensations in achieving this flow state is not well understood.
That's why my goal is to learn more about this connection and find ways to help people to experience flow while they work mentally. This hopefully can improve their daily work lives, well-being and productivity simultaneously.
You are already familiar with the concept of flow states (and hopefully already have been in flow for multiple times), but you have never before heard something about interoception? Get ready to expand your knowledge via the following popular science articles:
- Interoception: The hidden sense that shapes wellbeing. (The Guardian)
- Interozeption: Signale aus dem Körperinneren (Spektrum der Wissenschaft)
I am currently looking for ...
- Student Research Assistants (HiWis)
- Thesis Students
Uncovering the link between interoception and flow states requires a diverse approach. That's why my research incorporates laboratory and field experiments, as well as quantitative and qualitative survey studies. If you're motivated by this topic and you have a curious and reliable mindset - regardless of your field of study (economics, psychology, computer science, ...) - don't hesitate to reach out to me for collaboration. As interdisciplinary research requires a flexible concept, so we will elaborate together on a setup that fits your priorities and my current research agenda as well as.
Projects
Curriculum Vitae
05/2022 - Today | Doctoral Researcher IISM Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) |
03/2020 - 04/2022 |
Research Associate IISM Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) |
10/2018 - 09/2021 | # Bachelor of Science - Psychology University Koblenz-Landau (final grade: passed with Distinction / 1.1) |
04/2012 - 06/2018 | Technical Project Engineer - Driver Assisctance & Safety Systems (Radar/Camera) Daimler AG (Development-/Research-Center of Mercedes-Benz Trucks Europe, Wörth am Rhein) |
03/2009 - 08/2012 | # Master of Science (FH) - Vehicle Systems Technology Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences (final grade: Excellent) |
09/2008 - 03/2012 | Development and Validation Engineer - Electropneumatic Braking Systems Daimler AG (Development-/Research-Center of Mercedes-Benz Trucks Europe, Wörth am Rhein) |
10/2006 - 08/2008 | Electrical Engineer - Automation, Robotics, Electrical/Electronical Plant Construction Daimler AG (Mercedes-Benz Trucks Europe) |
10/2003 - 09/2006 |
# Diplom-Ingenieur (BA) - Electrical and Electronics Engineering (Automization) |
Publications
Detecting Flow Experiences in the Field Using Video- Based Head and Face Activity Recognition: A Pilot Study.
Berger, C.; Knierim, M.T.; Weinhardt C.
2021. NeuroIS Retreat 2021: June 1-3, 2021. doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-88900-5_14
Open-source concealed EEG data collection for Brain-computer-interfaces - neural observation through OpenBCI amplifiers with around-the-ear cEEGrid electrodes.
Knierim, M. T.; Berger, C.; Reali, P.
2021. Brain-computer interfaces. doi:10.1080/2326263X.2021.1972633