Understanding how we remember complex visual scenes

Using Population Vectors to Understand Visual Working Memory for Natural Stimuli

NIH-funded research University of California at Davis · NIH-11211939

This study is looking at how we remember and recognize things we see in our everyday lives, and it’s for anyone curious about how our brains work when we look at complex scenes; by participating in fun tasks comparing different visuals, you’ll help researchers learn more about memory and perception!

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California at Davis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Davis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11211939 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how visual working memory operates when we encounter complex scenes in our daily lives. By using advanced neural network models, the study aims to create a more accurate representation of how we remember and recognize objects and scenes. Participants will engage in tasks where they compare different visual scenes, helping researchers understand the underlying mechanisms of memory and perception. The findings could lead to improved models that reflect real-world visual experiences, enhancing our understanding of human cognition.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation are individuals with normal or corrected-to-normal vision who are interested in how memory works.

Not a fit: Patients with severe visual impairments or cognitive disorders affecting memory may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could improve our understanding of visual memory, potentially leading to better strategies for enhancing memory and perception in various populations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research using neural network models has shown promise in understanding cognitive processes, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Davis, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.