The Cognitive Science Graduate Students Association (CSGSA)
The Cognitive Science Graduate Student Association (CSGSA) is an organization run by grad students, for grad students. We bring together Master’s and PhD students from a wide range of labs and backgrounds to support and enhance the graduate student experience.
Throughout the year, we host a variety of social events, including pool nights at MacLaren’s, board game nights, holiday potlucks, and more. We also run an annual merch sale, designing fresh, funky fits so you can show off your cog sci pride around campus. In 2025, we launched the CSGSA student lounge—a shared space where grad students from every lab can study, hang out, or simply enjoy the view.
For updates and upcoming events, follow us on social media. You can also visit the lounge in Dunton Tower 2202A, where we post a monthly schedule.
Discord
Who are We?
Mary Nehmé, Co-President
Mary is a first-year PhD student in Cognitive Science at Carleton University and a member of the Cognition and Neuroscience of Aging Lab (CANAL). Her research explores how traumatic brain injuries and repetitive head impacts, particularly in hockey, affect cognitive reserve and neuroplasticity. Outside of research, Mary enjoys planning and hosting events and is excited to foster community and connection within the department.
Nico Turcas, Treasurer
Nico is a PhD candidate in Cognitive Science investigating cognitive aging through computational modelling. Their research leverages cognitive architectures to formalize and test major theories of aging, with a focus on mechanisms of cognitive reserve, control, and compensation.
Sarah Blackburn, Colloquium Liaison
Sarah is in her second year of completing her Master’s degree in the L-Neuro lab under Dr. Olessia Jouravlev. Her research focuses on the emotional effects of cyclical female hormone changes. Her hobbies include reading, running, and being a dog mom to her pup.
Leah Marshall, Admin
Leah is a second-year master’s student in cognitive science. Leah is the admin for the CSGSA. She keeps meeting minutes and serves as the association’s external contact. Her research takes place in the Carleton Math Lab, where she studies early numeracy. She also completed her undergraduate degree in cognitive science in the Math Lab.
Anna Cole, Councillor
Anna is a first-year Master’s student in the Department of Cognitive Science. She is passionate about women’s health and exploring how biological and psychological factors contribute to individual differences in cognition. She looks forward to becoming more involved in the graduate student community and participating in events that bring students together. Outside of academia, she loves all things horses and can happily spend hours talking about Star Wars lore.