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We have created a driving simulator with 3 DoF (pitch, roll, yaw), and integrated it with a Virtual Reality Headset. This simulator is a useful tool with which we can set up experiments with less noise and hazard, in the case of driving. We aim to use this driving simulator in various experiments such as moral dilemma, microdose, and more. While administering an immersive simulation where visual and vestibular stimuli of driving are fully controlled, we are planning to integrate the driving simulator with EEG, EMG measurements, as well as motion capture systems to further its usage.

We investigate the sense of agency - the sense of ownership or authorship of our actions. TMS is used to artificially activate cortical regions of the brain, and when it is applied to motor cortex participants will move their arms, legs, or other muscles involuntarily. Wittgenstein famously asked: “What is left over if I subtract the fact that my arm goes up from that fact that I raise my arm?” - We aim to answer this interesting question.

We are interested in studying the neurological and physiological effects of the float pod, also known as REST therapy, or sensory deprivation tank. In this study, we aim to measure neural activity using electroencephalography (EEG) and ECG. We intend to look at the different levels of relaxation and the brain rhythms that are associated with relaxation.

Our neurofeedback project teaches participants to self-regulate their brain activity from sad or neutral states to happy states. This involves recording brain activity while participants are in these various moods and teaching a machine-learning algorithm to distinguish the moods in real time. The ultimate goals of this study are:

1) to validate personalized EEG neurofeedback as a treatment for depression; and

2) to identify brain regions as potential targets for Deep Brain Stimulation, an option for treatment-resistant depression.

This project combines neural stimulation and physiological recordings in order to uncover the relationship between subcortical arousal mechanisms (indexed by pupillometry) and TMS-EEG signatures of awareness, such as complexity and stability.

The neural basis of intention is still largely unknown. In this study, we will aim to decode the process of decision-making and intention-formation from electroencephalography (EEG) brain signals. We intend to use these methods to answer questions such as how intentions are shaped either freely or from environmental cues.

Visual perception of faces at different sizes as an indicator of social cognition ability.

The project tries to answer the question whether reactions can occur without awareness of the triggering stimulus and the reaction itself. Ran in the lab with EMG.

The project addresses the question whether it is possible to disentangle foresight and intention of an action outcome. Can the subjects foresee an outcome without intending?

Modulate the amplitude of the readiness potential and measure the differential causal role of motor regions in deliberate vs. arbitrary decisions using TBS. This project involves EEG, MRI and TMS.

This project aims to uncover the similarities and differences in how the brain generates self-initiated actions and creative ideas, two examples of spontaneous behavior. We investigate similarities and differences in behavior as well as antecedent pupillary signals.

The project explores the role of mental imagery in the experience of volition. It involves an EEG study and an online study.

This project aims to develop an novel method for studying intentionality and commitment to a plan of action by analyzing reaction time patterns when participants are forced to change their minds.

» Research Projects

Virtual Reality Driving Simulator for Ethical and Moral Dilemmas

Investigation of Intention and Agency Using TMS

Investigating the Psycho-Physiological Effects of Floatation

EEG Biofeedback

Brain Stimulation and Neural Activity Patterns: A TMS-EEG-Pupillometry Study

Decoding Intentions: an EEG Study

Social Cognition and Visual Perception in Autism

IMU

Double Effect

Modulating the Readiness Potential via Theta-Burst Simulation

Eye Decide / Volition-Creativity

The Role of Mental Imagery in the Experience of Volition

Dakota