Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) is a relatively new optical imaging technique for mapping neural activity that measures hemodynamic changes in the cerebral cortex associated with resting or evoked brain activity. Unlike PET and fMRI, NIRS is a non-harmful, portable and relatively inexpensive technique that can monitor cortical hemodynamics continuously, in real-time.
Our ultimate goal is to increase the understanding of the brain functions in health and disease through fNIRS experimentation. Our lab contributes by both developing fNIRS instrumentation and headgears and exploring novel methods of analyzing cortical hemodynamic data. We have access to several brain imaging devices, including a NIRx NIRSscout 16×16 (sources x detectors), an Imagent ISS 64×8, and will soon complete a custom-built instrument with up to 64 emitters and 64 detectors for mapping the entire cerebral cortex. We are also equipped with 3D digitizer and advanced software solutions for reconstruction of hemodynamic and electroencephalographic images. Our facility includes a brain scanning room with visual, auditory and other stimulation devices and an optoelectronic laboratory for design, development and testing of new instruments.
Our collaborative team have expertise spanning from optical imaging to electrophysiology, from psychology to clinical neuroscience. Current projects include assessing the neural response to speech in cochlear implant users, measuring cognitive and motor impairment in diabetic populations, and exploring brain-machine aplications using fNIRS. To learn more about our activities and opportunities, please contact us.