NeuroAI and Neurotechnology (NAINT)

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The NeuroAI and Neurotechnology (NAINT) research team brings together expertise in cognitive neuroscience, computational neuroscience, neurotechnology and artificial intelligence to understand how the brain gives rise to intelligent behaviour and to translate these insights into next-generation intelligent technologies.

Our research spans multiple levels of investigation, from neural signals, cells and circuits through cognition and behaviour to computational models, artificial intelligence and neurotechnology. We combine experimental neuroscience with mathematical modelling, machine learning, neural data science and engineering to develop new approaches for understanding, augmenting and interacting with the brain.

Research

NAINT investigates the neural and computational mechanisms underlying cognition, behaviour and adaptive intelligence. Research encompasses sensory perception, attention, decision-making, learning, memory, cognitive control, motor imagery, social cognition and metacognition, as well as the effects of fatigue, arousal, alertness, mood and emotion.

A major strand of our research examines how these processes are altered in neurological and neuropsychiatric conditions, including stroke, dementia, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, spinal cord injury, epilepsy, autism, schizophrenia and depression. By combining experimental and computational approaches, we seek to identify the neural mechanisms underlying both healthy and dysfunctional brain function.

Our research includes:

Cognitive and computational neuroscience
Neural computation and mathematical modelling
Neural data science and computational neuroimaging
Brain dynamics, network neuroscience and neural connectivity
Machine learning and AI for neuroscience
Neuro-inspired and cognitive AI
Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs)
Neurorehabilitation and assistive neurotechnology
Multimodal neuroimaging and neural signal analysis
Neural-glial and synaptic computation
Computational approaches to brain disorders
Human–machine interaction and cognitive augmentation

NAINT uses a combination of experimental, computational and engineering methodologies.

Cognitive Neuroscience, Neuroimaging and Neural Data Science

We design behavioural experiments and cognitive tasks and collect non-invasive neural and physiological measurements, including electroencephalography (EEG), magnetoencephalography (MEG), structural and functional magnetic resonance imaging (s/fMRI), electromyography (EMG), eye movements, pupil responses and other physiological signals. Through collaborations with clinical and neuroscience partners, the team also works with intracranial and multi-neuronal recordings where appropriate.

The team operates and contributes to specialist research infrastructure, including the Northern Ireland Functional Brain Mapping (NIFBM) facility, which provides access to whole-head 306-channel MEG for high-resolution measurement of human brain activity.

These experimental data are analysed using advanced signal processing, statistics, machine learning, computational neuroimaging and neural data science. Computational models and mathematical approaches, including dynamical systems methods, are used to develop mechanistic explanations of how neural circuits generate cognition and behaviour.

Neurotechnology and Brain-Computer Interfaces

NAINT develops technologies that establish direct or indirect links between neural activity and computational systems.

The team also maintains dedicated brain-computer interface (BCI) facilities for neural signal acquisition, processing and real-time interaction. Our BCI research investigates the real-time decoding of voluntary brain activity from signals such as EEG and MEG to control external devices and provide new forms of communication and interaction. Applications include neurorehabilitation, assistive technologies, cognitive augmentation, gaming, virtual and extended reality, and collective cognitive systems.

Neurofeedback and BCI-based interventions are also investigated as technologies for supporting rehabilitation and improving independence and quality of life following brain injuries or disorders.

Computational Neuroscience and NeuroAI

A central objective of NAINT is to establish a two-way relationship between neuroscience and artificial intelligence.

The team develops computational models across multiple levels of descriptions, from neurotransmitters to neural and neural-glial systems to investigate the cellular and systems level mechanisms underlying learning, memory, decision-making, adaptive behaviour and higher cognition, in normal and dysfunctional brain functions – Computational Neuroscience.

The team’s research provides a bridge between fundamental neuroscience and the development of brain-inspired computational architectures for AI and intelligent systems – NeuroAI.

We use insights from cognition and neural computation to develop novel intelligent algorithms and systems, while also using AI, computational modelling and data-driven approaches as tools for understanding the brain. Research includes cognitive-model-inspired AI, biologically informed neural networks, predictive coding, confidence-aware AI and energy-efficient intelligent systems.

This strand of work aims to develop AI systems that are more adaptive, efficient, interpretable and robust, while providing computational models that can generate experimentally testable hypotheses about brain function.

Research Facilities

Brain-Computer Interface Laboratory

The BCI laboratory supports research into neural signal acquisition, processing and brain-computer interaction. Facilities include EEG and EMG systems, mobile neural recording equipment, physiological and eye-tracking sensors, an electromagnetic-shielded environment and equipment for testing assistive and mobility technologies.

Northern Ireland Functional Brain Mapping Facility

The Northern Ireland Functional Brain Mapping (NIFBM) facility provides whole-head magnetoencephalography using a 306-channel Elekta Neuromag MEG system. The facility enables high-resolution investigation of human brain activity and supports research spanning cognitive neuroscience, computational neuroscience, neurotechnology and clinical applications.

The facility operates through collaboration across the Intelligent Systems Research Centre and partner research and clinical organisations.

Applications and Impact

NAINT research is directed towards both fundamental scientific understanding and real-world applications. Our work has potential impact across healthcare, neurorehabilitation, assistive technology, intelligent systems, human-computer interaction and AI.

By combining neuroscience, computation and engineering, NAINT aims to develop technologies that can better understand human intelligence, interact naturally with neural systems and enable new forms of intelligent and adaptive computing.

Team Members

The NAINT team brings together researchers with complementary expertise in cognitive neuroscience, computational neuroscience, neurotechnology, brain-computer interfaces, neural data science, AI and neural engineering.