Dr Elena Antonova
Reader in Psychology
Quad North 134
- Email: elena.antonova@brunel.ac.uk
- Tel: +44 (0)1895 266641
Summary
I am a Reader in Contemplative Neuroscience in the Department of Psychology, College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences. I obtained a BSc in Psychology in 2000 from the University College London, UK, and a PhD in Cognitive Psychology in 2004 from the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, UK.
My main area of research interest and expertise is the neuroscience of mindfulness, with a focus on investigating the effects of long-term mindfulness meditation practice using psychophysiology and neuroimaging methods, and applying the insights gained from this research to the prevention of mental illness as well as the promotion of mental health and wellbeing. I have been actively involved with the Mind and Life Institute since 2011 and with Mind and Life Europe since 2013, organisations that catalyse interdisciplinary scientific research into the effects of contemplative practices. In 2017, I was elected a Mind & Life Research Fellow for my contribution to contemplative science - the highest honorific recognition in my research field.
I also actively engage with the ontological foundations of cognitive neuroscience, specifically the mind–brain relationship, and of the sciences more generally.
Qualifications
Post-Graduate Certificate in Academic Practice
PhD Cognitive Psychology
BSc Psychology
Newest selected publications
Haydock, D., Kadir, S., Leech, R., Nehaniv, CL. and Antonova, E. (2025) 'EEG Microstate Syntax Analysis: A Review of Methodological Challenges and Advances'. NeuroImage, 309. pp. 1 - 13. ISSN: 1053-8119 Open Access Link
Vakani, K., Norbury, R., Vanova, M., Ratto, M., Parton, A., Antonova, E. and et al. (2024) 'Cognitive function and brain structure in COVID-19 survivors: The role of persistent symptoms'. Behavioural Brain Research, 476. pp. 1 - 12. ISSN: 0166-4328 Open Access Link
Kumari, V., Tailor, U., Saifullah, A., Pandey, R. and Antonova, E. (2024) 'Non-dual awareness and sensory processing in meditators: Insights from startle reflex modulation'. Consciousness and Cognition, 123. pp. 1 - 16. ISSN: 1053-8100 Open Access Link
McDonald, H., Valmaggia, L., Antonova, E. and Chadwick, P. (2024) 'Taking the edge off: a feasibility randomized controlled trial of an online mindfulness-based intervention to reduce suspiciousness/paranoia in high positive schizotypy'. Frontiers in Psychology, 15. pp. 1 - 12. ISSN: 1664-1078 Open Access Link
Vakani, K., Ratto, M., Sandford-James, A., Antonova, E. and Kumari, V. (2024) 'Cognitive and Mental Health Trajectories of COVID-19: Role of Hospitalisation and Long-COVID Symptoms'. European Psychiatry, 67 (1). pp. 1 - 12. ISSN: 0924-9338 Open Access Link