Cris Niell, assistant professor in the University of Oregon’s Institute for Neuroscience, together with several psychology graduate students, has organized a symposium on the subject entitled “The Science of Mindfulness and Meditation,” scheduled for 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 1 in Willamette Hall, Room 110.

The afternoon symposium will feature guest speaker Dr. Sara Lazar of the Harvard Medical School, who has pioneered studies about the effects of meditation on brain structure and function. In addition to Dr. Lazar’s address, both graduate students and faculty from the University of Oregon will give presentations, including graduate students Lisa May and Robin Hertz, clinical psychology professor Heidemarie Laurent, and noted cognitive neuroscientist Michael Posner.

A reception following the symposium will provide time for further discussion among the speakers and attendees. All who are interested in the scientific underpinnings of meditation and mindfulness are welcome to attend the symposium.