UROP Leader Information Submission: Submission #318

First Name: Nigel-Ginola "N-G"
Last Name: Njok Esong
Full name as you would like it to appear on the website: Nigel-Ginola "N-G" Njok Esong
Preferred Pronouns: He/Him/His
Hometown, State, and Country (ex: Tallahassee, FL, USA): Palm Coast, FL, USA
FSU email : nln23b@fsu.edu
Please check this box if you are willing to be contacted by students interested in UROP: Yes
LinkedIn URL (optional): {Empty}
Major(s): Behavioral Neuroscience
Minor(s): Chemistry & Sociology
Graduation Semester and Year (ex: Fall, 2022): Spring 2028
What is your current research focus?:
I work in Dr. Justin Riddle's Cognitive Neuroscience lab, which explores how cognitive control is disrupted in psychiatric illness utilizing novel brain technology such as electroencephalography (EEG) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). More specifically, my research focus investigates the neural mechanisms behind mind wandering in the brain, extending to topics such as thought orientation and intentionality. 

Furthermore, I am interested in how ruminative mental states in the brain influence cognition and frequency of mind-wandering. In my final semesters, I hope to pursue an Honors in the Major Project to supplement my knowledge and passions. 


Are there any other research related activities you participate(d) in?:
Throughout my time at FSU, I have been able to present at multiple different research conferences, such as the Undergraduate Research Symposium (2024-2025), alongside the Department of Psychology Undergraduate Research Day (2025-2026). 

Additionally, I serve in the Executive Board for the Neuroscience Undergraduate Student Association, alongside Nu Rho Psi, the Neuroscience Honors Society on campus, promoting and facilitating conversations in neuroscience research for club members. 


Answer one of the following two questions about being a UROP Leader or your UROP background. : How do you hope to impact your students as a UROP Leader?
Please answer the question you selected above in the area provided.:
Within my time as a UROP Leader, I aim to provide my students with comfort and reassurance that they are capable of anything they put their minds to. In my instruction, students will be able to become confident in their academic research, and additionally, apply those skills throughout their undergraduate career at Florida State. 


Please list any other hobbies or interests you would like to share:
Apart from research, I work as a University Ambassador on Campus, providing tours to prospective and admitted students. Furthermore, I am a violinist in the Sinfonia Orchestra, housed in FSU's College of Music! 


Headshot: https://cre.fsu.edu/system/files/webform/urop_leaders_information/22319/Screenshot%202026-04-19%20at%206.40.14%E2%80%AFPM.png
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2026Year2026: 2026
Approved: No
Update URL UROP Leaders: https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=Ffuak_Qf-D-eS9W6O5kQUUoMtdn_f6EVt64k2DU67Bg
Years as a UROP Leader: 2024-2025 and 2025-2026