Brain and Behaviour research group in RISES
The Brain and Behaviour research group study perceptual, cognitive and motor processes.
Our aim is to enhance performance and learning of human behaviour in sporting and everyday settings.
We take a multidisciplinary approach using methods from neurophysiology, biomechanics and experimental psychology to investigate two broad and related themes:
1) sensorimotor control of action;
2) expert performance and learning.
Simon Bennett
Professor of Sensorimotor Neuroscience
Our core areas of activity
Sensorimotor control of action
Our research seeks to better understand the sensorimotor processes involved in typical and atypical (e.g., autism spectrum condition, stroke patients, mtbi) human motor behaviour, with the intention to facilitate performance and learning across the lifespan.
Central to our projects is the detailed analysis of human movement across a range of scales from whole-body to upper limb fine motor control, as well as the underlying cognitive, visual, ocular and neural processes.
Our research is conducted in three co-located, purpose-built laboratories that are uniquely equipped to perform motion analysis (Vicon; NDI; Theia), gaze tracking (EyeLink 1000) and non-invasive brain imaging using fNIRS (NIRx) and EEG (Brain Products), while viewing high spatial and temporal resolution 2D visual stimuli (ViewPixx EEG) or interacting with 3D virtual stimuli (VIVE XR Elite).
Expert performance and learning
- We research and evaluate the effects of physical activity and sedentary behaviour on health and well-being.
- We use robust scientific measures to provide information on levels of physical activity, sedentary behaviour and health.
- We explore factors that affect participation in physical activity and sedentary behaviour.
- We design, implement and evaluate interventions to change behaviour.
- We work collaboratively with our external partners to translate evidence into policy and practice.