The field of human performance is in a moment of rapid expansion. Technological advancements have made it possible to study, predict, and improve human performance with a precision previously unimagined. Increasingly sophisticated physiological sensors provide rich and nuanced data about individual traits and states. The availability and quality of physiological data make it possible to examine performance factors outside of the lab and, thus, accelerate the transition from basic to applied research.

Hand in hand with the need to collect large amounts of data is the ability to analyze it. Recent advances in data analytics (e.g., AI, and machine learning) have enabled researchers to model and understand physiological data in unprecedented ways, increasing the capability for detecting patterns and profiles can better understand the neural, cognitive, and biological factors that affect performance. At last, the ability to influence and improve performance is at our fingertips.

ARLIS is a leader in the field of human performance, with capabilities in the following:

• Psychometric assessment, including the development of batteries of aptitude tests to improve selection in training and workforce contexts (e.g., cybersecurity and, language training);
• Neuroimaging and psychophysiological index development, including improved understanding of how cognitive load and affective states influence performance;
• Physical activity measures, including the relationship between physical activity/ability indices (e.g., accelerometer, gait, cardiovascular health, and lifestyle information) and performance;
• Interventions to enhance performance, including the development and testing of noninvasive peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) techniques to improve learning and performance;
• Speech and natural language processing, including extracting information about affective and cognitive states based on linguistic output; and
• Team science expertise, both in terms of optimizing trust and usability in human-machine teaming contexts and psychology-based approaches to optimize human team performance.

Of note, ARLIS advances in noninvasive peripheral nerve stimulation techniques have spurred a surge of interest in these approaches to enhancing cognitive and physical performance, including in areas as disparate as reducing cognitive bias in analysts and reducing PTSD effects in service members.