LUMINOUS

Studying, Measuring and Altering Consciousness through information theory in the electrical brain - LUMINOUS ("action")

01.03.2016 bis 31.08.2019

What is consciousness? Can it be measured? Inspired by recent developments in neuroscience and the potential role of fundamental concepts such as information integration and algorithmic complexity, we will study, model, quantify, and alter observable aspects of consciousness. Supported by computational neuroscience models, we aim to create non-invasive consciousness-probing technologies integrating electro- and magneto-encephalography, peripheral and non-invasive electromagnetic brain stimulation (NIBS) with advanced techniques to analyse brain activity – including functional and effective connectivity. To achieve these goals we will pursue computational neuroscience models and parallel human studies – in sleep, anaesthesia, locked-in syndrome, disorders of consciousness, and in utero – supported by machine learning to disentangle the essential aspects of consciousness and establish links with artificial cognition research. The project will also explore the ethical implications of such technologies and the prospects for clinical translation.