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Research & Development

Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) reflects a field of clinical and technical research that is growing quickly and garnering interest worldwide.  While BCI development advances rapidly, there is a lack of research around use by individuals with significant neurological disabilities, especially children.

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The Imagination Centre's research focuses on adapting BCI technology for individuals with neurological disabilities, including adapting BCI paradigms, training methods and applications, and optimizing signal processing algorithms.  The program is primarily focused on how BCIs can improve the quality of life and meaningful participation of people with disabilities.  

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The Imagination Centre research program is patient-oriented, meaning patients drive our research questions.  We are striving for a truly integrated clinical and research program, with researchers, clinicians, patients, and their families working together to advance BCI research and development.   

Join the Team

The Imagination Centre research program is affiliated with the University of Alberta's Assistive Technology Lab, Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, and Faculty of Engineering.

Current Positions

The program also accepts summer student internships and co-op placements. Contact us to learn more.

We are always eager to collaborate with other research and clinical groups. Reach out to learn more about opportunities to collaborate with the lab.

Current Projects

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BCI Patient Predictors & Experiences

Principal Investigator: Dr. John Andersen

This study aims to:

  • Describe the experiences of children with motor disabilities (and their caregivers) using BCI systems

  • Determine whether clinical characteristics predict the experiences of children with motor disabilities (and their caregivers) using BCI systems

  • Operationalize a local registry of families interested in participating in future pediatric BCI research, including patient and family-oriented research priorities

Now Recruiting!
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BCi Move

Principal Investigator: Dr. Adam Kirton (University of Calgary)
Site Principal Investigator: Dr. John Andersen

This multi-site study explores if BCI can be used as a technology to access and drive powered mobility devices for children with severe physical impairments who may have limited success with more common access methods like joysticks or switches.  

Recruitment Closed
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Access to Play Through Non-Invasive BCI

Principal Investigator: Dr. Kim Adams

This study aims to:

  • Describe how BCI facilitates engaged play for children with severe motor and communication impairments 

  • Describe the experiences and satisfaction of individuals with severe motor and communication impairments (and their caregivers) using BCI systems  

  • Track changes to BCI system performance and participant performance on personalized goals over time

Now Recruiting!
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Family Expectations & Experiences with BCI-Enabled Power Mobility

Principal Investigator: Dr. Lesley Pritchard

This study aims to:

  • Illustrate challenges accessing power mobility for new and previous power users and their caregivers

  • Explore the needs and expectations for BCI-enabled power mobility of patients and caregivers

  • Describe experiences of patients and caregivers after participating in a BCI-enabled power mobility training program

Now Recruiting!
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