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Project

Fundamental mechanisms of human visual categorization: Neural basis, development and plasticity (HUMVISCAT)

This research consortium will aim at understanding the cognitive mechanisms and neural basis of visual categorization, a fundamental brain function by (1) generating a core of knowledge integrated in a coherent conceptualization of how visual signals are integrated to form categories in the human ventral occipito-temporal cortex with high field fMRI and intracerebral recordings using fast presentation of natural visual images; (2) assessing the flexibility of brain mechanisms underlying the neural circuitry for perceptual categorization in natural experts, sensory deprived populations and animals lacking categorical representations without training and (3) investigating how these mechanisms develop in typical and atypical populations shedding light on our understanding of key neurodevelopmental disorders (cortical visual impairment, autism, dyslexia, congenital cataract). To do so, 6 research groups with world-leading expertise in a variety of research paradigms and techniques in cognitive neuroscience to understand the human visual system will join force in a highly interdisciplinary project.

Date:1 Jan 2018 →  31 Dec 2021
Keywords:Visual categorization
Disciplines:Neurosciences, Biological and physiological psychology, Cognitive science and intelligent systems, Developmental psychology and ageing