Creating advanced sensors to measure brain activity in natural settings
Official title: Development of Quantum Magnetic Tunneling Junction Sensor Arrays for Brain Magnetoencephalography (MEG) under Natural Settings
Funded at Brown University · NIH-10906158 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new, super-sensitive device that can safely pick up tiny magnetic signals from your brain while you go about your daily life, helping scientists learn more about how our brains work in real-world situations.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brown University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Providence, United States) |
| Project start | August 11, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $323,338 |
| NIH project number | 5UG3EB034695-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10906158 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals interested in participating in studies related to brain function and cognitive processes, particularly those who may have neurological conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with severe cognitive impairments or those unable to participate in non-invasive brain imaging may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a highly sensitive quantum magnetometer that can non-invasively detect extremely weak magnetic fields generated by brain activity during everyday experiences. By utilizing quantum technology, the project aims to enhance the sensitivity of current sensors significantly, allowing for the creation of a whole-head magnetoencephalographic (MEG) system that operates without the need for cumbersome shielding. This innovative approach will enable researchers to capture brain signals in real-world environments, providing valuable insights into cognitive processes and brain function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to groundbreaking advancements in understanding brain activity and improving diagnostic tools for neurological conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging technologies for brain studies, but this approach utilizing quantum sensors is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Brown University
Providence, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Xiao, Gang — Brown University
- Study coordinator: Xiao, Gang
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Digital twins of the spleen to help design better therapies for sickle cell disease
A computer-driven replica of the spleen is being developed to speed up creating safer and more effective treatments for people with sickle cell disease.
-
Understanding how heavy drinking and anxiety relate in emerging adults
This grant studies how heavy alcohol use and anxiety symptoms interact in young adults (ages 18–34) and what biological stress markers might reveal about that relationship.
-
Population Studies Center at Brown: research to improve health and well-being of people, including children and those affected by HIV/AIDS
A Brown University center researchers study how social and environmental factors shape health, with a focus on children, families, HIV, and health disparities.
-
Role of ER membrane contact sites in synapse formation and plasticity
A study from Brown University will explore how connections between cell parts help neurons form and adapt synapses, which may shed light on degenerative brain disorders.
-
Public Use Data on Mexican and Central American Immigration (health data project)
A national study will collect and share health survey data from Mexican and Central American immigrants to understand how health changes over time in this population.
-
Impact of Virtual Doula Support on Birth Outcomes in Rural Communities
A study to see if virtual doula support improves birth outcomes for people giving birth in rural areas.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.