On May 28, Christian N. L. Olivers, Professor of Visual Cognition and Head of the Department of Experimental and Applied Psychology at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, visited the Department of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences at Zhejiang University. He was received by Hui Chen, Chair of the Department; Yuzheng Hu, Vice Chair; and Mengyuan Gong, Assistant to the Chair.

In the morning, Professor Olivers delivered an engaging academic lecture to faculty members and students of the Department. His talk focused on the complex and dynamic interplay between working memory and attention, highlighting how visual working memory can actively guide attention in response to current task demands. Drawing on evidence from EEG and fMRI studies, he discussed the neural mechanisms underlying different “states” of working memory and further demonstrated how the representational structure of working memory can be dynamically reorganized according to anticipated actions and task requirements. His work offered an insightful and integrative perspective on how working memory supports attention and task control.

At noon, the two sides held a meeting to explore opportunities for future collaboration. Hui Chen provided an overview of the Department’s history, academic strengths, and development strategy, with particular emphasis on the role of international collaboration in student education and scientific research. Professor Olivers introduced the organizational structure and curriculum of the Department of Experimental and Applied Psychology at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and expressed his strong interest in developing deeper collaboration with Zhejiang University.

 

The two sides exchanged ideas and proposals on a range of topics, including student exchanges, short- and long-term academic visits, and research collaboration. They also held in-depth discussions on potential initiatives such as student exchange programs and summer schools. Consensus was reached on several aspects of joint student training, laying a solid foundation for substantive collaboration in the future.

During his visit, Professor Olivers also toured the Department’s research laboratories.

The Department of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences at Zhejiang University remains committed to advancing high-level international engagement and building strong partnerships with leading universities worldwide. Professor Olivers’ visit is expected to further promote practical collaboration between the two institutions in areas such as joint research and talent development, contributing to the continued advancement and innovation of psychological science.