Understanding how we control our attention and adapt to changing tasks
Official title: Neurocognitive mechanisms of control over cognitive stability and flexibility
Funded at Duke University · NIH-10916225 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how people with ADHD manage their attention and switch focus between tasks, using brain scans to see how these skills work together, so we can better understand and help those who struggle with attention issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $476,442 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH133550-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10916225 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with ADHD or those experiencing difficulties with attention and cognitive control.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable cognitive functions and no attention-related disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the neurocognitive mechanisms behind how individuals manage their attention and adapt their focus in response to changing tasks. It explores two key components: cognitive stability, which is the ability to maintain focus on relevant tasks, and cognitive flexibility, which allows for quick shifts in attention when needed. By utilizing advanced techniques like functional MRI and EEG, the study aims to uncover how these processes work together and how they can be affected in various clinical conditions, particularly ADHD. Patients may be involved in tasks that assess their cognitive control while their brain activity is monitored.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for managing attention-related disorders, enhancing daily functioning for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cognitive control mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Egner, Tobias — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Egner, Tobias
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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.