The computational neurosciences research group in Amrita continues its path-breaking work in modelling the human brain’s cells, circuits and behaviour. The lab aims to reconstruct the activity of brain circuits to reveal more information on how brain processes information and to use models to understand neural functions and brain disorders. Ongoing efforts in mathematical modelling of neurons and circuits aim to understand information processing at multiple scales.
At the Mind Brain Center, MIND Lab is dedicated to understand the complexity of the human brain using advanced neuroimaging techniques and the analysis of neural dynamics. Our research uses multimodal imaging modalities, including electroencephalography (EEG), to provide a comprehensive knowledge of brain function and behavior.
Mission Statement:
Our objective is to study the dynamic interplay between brain function and behavior using EEG and other imaging modalities. Through experimentation and analysis, we aim to learn about the neural mechanisms underlying movement behavior, cognitive processes, emotional regulation, with the goal of informing clinical interventions and improving human health and well-being.
Research Focus Areas:
EEG Signal Analysis: This Facility at Amrita Mind Brain Center specializes in analysing EEG data to determine the temporal and spatial dynamics of cerebral activity at millisecond resolution. We use signal processing techniques, such as time-frequency analysis, event-related potentials (ERPs), and connectivity measures, to elucidate the neural signatures underlying cognitive processes like movement behavior, attention, memory, and decision-making.
Neural Dynamics of Behavior: Our research extends to explore how neural dynamics relate to behavior in real-world contexts. We try to conduct behavioral studies with neuroimaging experiments to study the neural correlates of perception, action, emotion, and social interaction, shedding light on the underlying mechanisms of human behavior.
By identifying neural patterns associated, with healthy subjects these findings would help us to identify the aberrant patterns from clinical populations which aim to develop biomarkers for early detection, rehabilitation, and interventions to improve the patient’s outcome.
Facilities and Resources
MIND lab at Mind Brain Center is equipped with state-of-the-art neuroimaging equipment, where researchers can measure brain activity from up to 256 electrodes on the head, (with 256-lead EEG technology) with up to 16 kHz sampling rate, that can be combined also an input for recordings of up to 24 bipolar channels or a combination of EMG channels with a variety of physiological sensors for rich data of body and mind.
The Facility includes high-density EEG systems with following different electrode leads.
Community Engagement and Outreach:
In addition to our research efforts, we as part of Mind Brain Center, are committed to engaging with the broader community through outreach programs, educational workshops, and public seminars. We collaborate with schools, healthcare organizations, and advocacy groups to raise awareness about brain health and promote scientific literacy in neuroscience.
The laboratory provides the ideal environment to investigate physiology from subcellular mechanisms to network dynamics and behavior. The laboratory include electrophysiology setups for single-cell patch-clamp, imaging in vitro and other equipment.
Gait Analysis Lab at mind brain center aims to design and develop a low-cost device to study human gait patterns. This research facility focuses on making gait analysis more accessible, cost-effective, and applicable in diverse settings. By employing low-cost sensors, such as accelerometers and gyroscopes enable to gather data on body movements, stride length, and gait symmetry, providing valuable insights into musculoskeletal function during pathological conditions. Also, EEG and accelerometer sensors were used to understand the coordination between the central nervous system, the limb, and the musculoskeletal system that helps to develop EEG brain computer interfaces for assistance during walking.
Bio-Inspired Robotics Lab is a cutting-edge research facility dedicated to exploring the intersection of neuroscience and robotics. At the forefront of innovation, this lab draws inspiration from the complexities of the human brain to develop advanced robotic systems that exhibit higher levels of adaptability, learning, and problem-solving capabilities. Researchers in the lab leverage insights from neuroscience to design robotic models that mimic neural processes, enabling machines to better understand and interact with their environments. This interdisciplinary approach brings together experts in robotics, artificial intelligence, and neuroscience to create a synergy between biological principles and technological advancements
“As an interdisciplinary research and teaching center, we draw faculty and topics from many schools at Amrita including Schools of Medicine, Engineering, Ayurveda, Biotechnology, Spiritual and Cultural Studies. The key labs and research focus at the center are the following.“
