Personal details
| Title | Multimodal Neural Data Acquisition in Semi-Naturalistic Settings Using EEG, Audio, AR Glasses, and Brain–Computer Interfaces |
| Description | Project Overview Understanding neural activity beyond controlled laboratory settings is one of the central challenges for modern cognitive neuroscience. Our group is developing novel hardware systems that allow the acquisition of neural and contextual data in everyday environments. This master thesis offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of neuroscience, engineering, and human–computer interaction by integrating multiple sensing technologies into a coherent experimental platform. The project combines two major components: The nEEGlace – a custom device enabling simultaneous EEG and audio recording, as well as precise presentation of auditory stimuli. Augmented Reality (AR) glasses with integrated eye tracking – providing a transparent visual display, continuous monitoring of gaze behavior, and controlled presentation of visual cues. Together, these systems enable continuous tracking of a person’s neural and perceptual states while they engage in naturalistic activities. Research Goals The overarching objective is to evaluate whether multimodal, wearable neurotechnology can be used to capture meaningful neural responses outside traditional laboratory environments. This includes: Continuous monitoring of neural oscillations (e.g., alpha activity) during naturalistic work. Evoked neural responses to auditory and visual stimuli embedded in complex scenes. Analysis of eye movements in response to natural and AR-based events. Using the setup as a brain–computer interface (BCI) for detecting specific events or intentions. Integration of behavioral signals (keyboard, mouse, response times) as contextual markers. Experimental Concept Participants will perform prolonged, office-like work at a computer while exposed to a dynamic auditory scene. They will wear: EEG electrodes (cap or ear-centered electrodes), the nEEGlace for EEG + audio acquisition, a pair of AR glasses displaying intermittent visual cues, and optionally integrated eye tracking. During the session, visual stimuli will be overlaid via AR (e.g., notifications such as an incoming phone call). Participants are instructed to attend and respond to these cues, generating measurable responses across multiple modalities: EEG, ERPs, eye movements, and behavioral outputs. This semi-naturalistic paradigm allows investigation of neural processing, attention, and BCI performance under more realistic conditions than typical laboratory tasks. Thesis Scope and Expected Contributions The master thesis will focus on establishing and validating the full multimodal data acquisition pipeline. Core responsibilities include: Integrating EEG, audio, AR visual cues, and eye tracking into a unified experimental framework. Ensuring precise synchronization across modalities. Designing and implementing the semi-naturalistic task environment. Conducting pilot recordings under realistic working conditions. Evaluating data quality for all modalities (continuous EEG, ERPs, gaze metrics, behavioral markers). Demonstrating feasibility for BCI or neural monitoring applications. Depending on interest, the student may also contribute to signal preprocessing, analysis pipelines, or BCI algorithms. What This Thesis Offers
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| Home institution | Translationale Psychologie |
| Associated institutions |
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| Type of work | practical / application-focused |
| Type of thesis | Master's degree |
| Author | Prof. Dr. Martin Georg Bleichner |
| Status | available |
| Problem statement | see above |
| Requirement | Candidate Profile This project is ideal for students in Neuroscience, Cognitive Science, Psychology, Computer Science, Engineering, or related fields who are interested in:
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| Created | 11/12/25 |
