Understanding how the brain controls complex movements in real life

Neural dynamics of freely-moving, naturalistic behavior

['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · STANFORD UNIVERSITY · NIH-10998263

This study looks at how our brains help us move in everyday life, aiming to understand the patterns behind our movements so that people with movement challenges can get better support and rehabilitation.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSTANFORD UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (STANFORD, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10998263 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how the brain's neural dynamics support complex, natural movements by examining motor computations involved in planning and executing actions. It aims to bridge the gap between traditional lab-based studies, which often involve constrained environments, and real-world movement scenarios. By analyzing how these neural dynamics generalize across different tasks and environments, the research seeks to provide insights into the fundamental patterns of motor cortical activity. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of motor function, which could inform rehabilitation strategies for those with movement impairments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals recovering from acquired brain injuries or strokes who experience difficulties with movement.

Not a fit: Patients with stable motor function and no history of brain injury may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved rehabilitation techniques for patients with motor impairments due to brain injuries.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding motor dynamics in controlled settings, but this approach of studying freely-moving behavior is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

STANFORD, 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 →

Conditions: Acquired brain injury

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.