How the brain links real-life events into memories
Event networks and the neural representations that support real-world memory
This work looks at how the brain connects everyday events into networks that help people — including children — remember real-life experiences.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11310170 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If you join, you would take part in tasks that recreate real-life sequences where you make choices and experience linked moments. Later you will be asked to recall or describe those moments while researchers record brain activity to see how connections between events are represented. The team compares simple linked events to larger 'hub' events that tie many moments together to map how these networks shape remembering. The approach uses naturalistic, choice-driven tasks rather than just passively viewing movies or stories.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal participants are children and adults who can follow task instructions and memory questions (parents must consent for minors) and who do not have major neurological impairments.
Not a fit: People with severe cognitive impairment, those unable to undergo brain recordings, or those seeking immediate clinical treatment are unlikely to gain direct benefit from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could improve understanding of how memories are organized and suggest new ways to help people with memory problems.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies using passive movies and stories have revealed memory-related brain patterns, but applying active, choice-driven event networks is a newer approach.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Janice — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Chen, Janice
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 below.