Multisensory Feedback for Learning to Control Brain-Computer Interfaces (B09)

• Subject Area: Cognitive, Systems and Behavioural Neurobiology ; Biomedical Systems Technology ; Experimental and Theoretical Network Neuroscience
• Term: since 2025
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 528760423

Intracortical brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) can control neuroprosthetic devices to restore lost motor functions. Here, we aim for improved BCI learning by enhancing peripheral sensory feedback. We will study control and adaptation of BCI-controlled movements, based on feedback provided visually and vibrotactilely, in large-scale chronic intracortical recordings across the frontoparietal reach network of rhesus monkeys that control their hand position in virtual reality via a closed-loop BCI. In parallel, we will conduct human and monkey psychophysical experiments to optimize vibrotactile stimulation and visuo-tactile integration. The longer-term goal is to develop biomimetic neural decoding algorithms to achieve fast and precise neuroprosthetic control.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1690: Disease Mechanisms and Functional Restoration of Sensory and Motor Systems
• Applicant Institution: Georg-August-Universität Göttingen
• Project Head: Professor Dr. Alexander Gail