Understanding how the brain processes live human faces
Official title: Basic neural processing mechanisms of live human face viewing
Funded at Yale University · NIH-10794910 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our brains react to real human faces versus robotic faces, especially in people with conditions like schizophrenia, to better understand how we process social interactions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | October 1, 2022 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $89,014 |
| NIH project number | 8K00MH139095-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10794910 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include neurotypical individuals who can provide insights into normal face processing mechanisms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with severe psychiatric disorders that prevent participation in face-viewing tasks may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the neural mechanisms involved in how the human brain processes live human faces compared to robotic faces. By using advanced techniques like functional Near Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS), the study aims to uncover the unique characteristics of live faces that engage specific brain areas, particularly the right temporoparietal junction. The research will also explore how these mechanisms may relate to psychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia, providing insights into the brain's response to social stimuli. Patients may be involved in experiments that assess their neural responses while viewing different types of faces.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of social cognition and lead to better treatments for psychiatric disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding face processing, but this specific approach using live versus robotic faces is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kelley, Megan — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Kelley, Megan
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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.