Understanding how the brain recognizes objects despite visual challenges
Official title: Neural and computational mechanisms underlying robust object recognition
Funded at Vanderbilt University · NIH-10873149 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how people recognize objects even when they can't see them clearly, like when things are blurry or noisy, and it's for anyone interested in how computers can learn to see better, just like we do.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $396,488 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY035157-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10873149 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with acquired brain injuries or conditions affecting their visual processing abilities.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable visual processing and no history of brain injury may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind how humans recognize objects even when visual conditions are poor, such as in cases of noise or blur. By comparing human brain responses to those of deep neural networks (DNNs), the study aims to identify the architectural and training flaws in DNNs that lead to their failure under challenging conditions. The project will explore different types of DNNs and their ability to predict human behavior and neural responses, ultimately seeking to improve DNN models to better mimic human vision. This could lead to advancements in technologies that rely on visual recognition, such as computer vision systems.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance the accuracy and reliability of visual recognition technologies, benefiting patients who rely on such systems for daily activities.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding human visual processing can lead to improvements in artificial intelligence systems, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tong, Frank — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Tong, Frank
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Understanding how peer norms around alcohol and HIV prevention affect adolescents and young adults in rural Uganda
This project studies how what young people think their peers do or approve of influences drinking and HIV prevention behaviors in rural Uganda, with the goal of improving health outcomes.
-
Cancer Pain Management for Asian American Breast Cancer Survivors with Depressive Symptoms
A technology-based program helps Asian American breast cancer survivors with depressive symptoms manage chronic pain more effectively from home using a web app and mobile tools.
-
Targeted gene silencing in the brain using siRNA helpers
This grant tests a new way to turn off specific brain genes in particular CNS cell types using siRNA conjugates to help understand brain biology and disease.
-
RSELVES Study: How older couples influence daily life and function with Alzheimer’s risk
A study to understand how daily routines and support between older adults and their partners relate to the development of Alzheimer’s-related functional decline.
-
Molecular mechanisms of coat assembly and regulation in membrane trafficking
A research project seeks to understand how cellular coats organize and regulate the delivery of membrane-bound cargo, with a focus on proteins related to neurological diseases.
-
Synaptic nanostructure in neurodevelopmental disorders
This project aims to map the tiny architecture of brain synapses in native cells to understand how connections form and change in neurodevelopmental disorders.
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.