The beauty of judo practitioners is their exceptional body balance control, achieved through extensive training in mid-air movements. This PhD project addresses two key questions: 1) What is the neural basis of this behavioral performance? and 2) To what extent can this neural foundation be leveraged to benefit individuals who have a pressing need to improve their body balance control abilities in the real world? Specifically, this PhD project aims to enhance balance control in stroke patients through the development of innovative neurotechnology. The research will progress in three key stages. First, electroencephalogram (EEG) biomarkers within the brain’s balance control centre, specifically the vestibular network, will be identified using data from well-trained judo practitioners. Next, a novel neuromodulation protocol will be developed to mimic these identified EEG biomarkers. Finally, the findings from these stages will be combined to create a closed-loop brain-computer interface (BCI) system designed for stroke patients. The expected outcome is an improvement in the balance control abilities of stroke patients, either during or after the neuromodulation intervention.
My research interests lie in vestibular neuroscience, neuroplasticity, and multimodal human–computer interaction. I aim to explore how adaptation, habituation, and motor learning contribute to balance control and motion-sickness mitigation, and how EEG-driven brain–computer interfaces can promote vestibular rehabilitation.
Master in Human-Computer Interaction (Distinction), University College London
Dr Gang Li
Prof Eamonn O’Neill
