Developing a dry electrode to improve EEG accessibility for all hair types

A Dry Electrode for Universal Accessibility to EEG

['FUNDING_SBIR_1'] · QUASAR, INC. · NIH-10761609

This study is working on a new type of dry electrode system for brain wave testing that will be easier and more comfortable for people with different hair types, especially those with tightly curled hair, so everyone can participate and help us learn more about how our brains work.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_SBIR_1']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorQUASAR, INC. (nih funded)
Locations1 site (San Diego, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10761609 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating a dry electrode system for electroencephalography (EEG) that is designed to be more inclusive for individuals with various hair types, particularly those of African descent. Traditional EEG methods often require scalp abrasion and conductive gels, which can be problematic for tightly curled or styled hair, leading to exclusion from research and potential inaccuracies in data collection. By addressing these accessibility issues, the research aims to enhance the quality of EEG data collected from diverse populations, thereby improving the understanding of brain activity across different demographics.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with tightly curled or styled hair, particularly those of African descent, who may have previously faced barriers to EEG participation.

Not a fit: Patients with straight or easily manageable hair types may not experience significant benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more equitable access to EEG technology, allowing for better representation and understanding of brain activity in diverse populations.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been research on EEG technology, this specific approach to addressing hair type disparities in EEG accessibility is novel and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

San Diego, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.