Direct Brain Control Interfacing (OpenBCI)
Project Overview
OpenBCI is described as an open-source brain computer interface platform that seeks to distribute biosensing and neurosensing hardware at a low-cost. Direct monitoring of brain signals has the potential to advance our understanding of brain function and facilitate future applications in both the neuroscience and engineering fields, ranging from creating a mind-controlled video game to aiding in addiction therapy. Our research uses OpenBCI’s gel-free electrode cap that enables the transmission of brainwave data to a GUI software interface. Through the GUI software, users can analyze brainwave data via various visual aids, including wave graphs, head plots, and spectrograms. To further enhance data interpretation, we have constructed an Arduino circuit with LEDs that light up upon detection of specific brain activity, aiding in real-time visualization and analysis.
View a video of the research we do here! –> https://news.vt.edu/content/news_vt_edu/en/videos/k/2024/04/1_os7sq7za.html
Objectives
- Complete Human Subjects Research
- Identify Trends in Brainwave Activity
Major Tasks
The major tasks of the project are outlined below. These are nominal and are likely to change somewhat throughout the course of the year. These are meant to illustrate the general nature of the work that the position entails.
- Recruit Study Participants
- Perform Human Factors Data Collection
- Analyze Data to Determine of ‘Thresholds’
- Validate ‘Hello World’ EEG Control
- Develop Spring 2025 Proposal
- Manage and reporting
Open Positions
Preferred Skills and Interests
- Neuroscience
- Arduino/PI/MCU
- Brain-Computer Interface
- Data processing
- EEG
- Human computer interaction
- Prosthetics
- Medical devices
Preferred Academic Years
- Looking for First-year/Sophomore/Junior level students
Preferred Majors
- CS
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
- Education
- BMES
- EE
- CpE
- Biology
Supportive Courses (helpful but not required)
- CS/CMDA/STAT 3654/4654
- CS 1064/2064/ 2104 (for the python experience)
- Linear Algebra (math concepts for machine learning)
How to Apply
Applications will be reviewed by Dr. Gray and by continuing researchers on the team. After a review of the application, our team will contact candidates to schedule an interview (likely to be conducted via zoom). Review for the positions will be conducted over the 2024 Summer break starting around 7/14/24. Please complete the MS Form, uploading the following documents:
- A brief (~1 page) essay or cover letter explaining which of the projects you are interested in, and why you think you might be a good fit for that project (or those projects). If you are applying for multiple projects, extend your essay a little and describe your interest and qualifications for each position. Be sure to let us know your major and where you are in your academic career (sophomore, junior, etc.)
- A resume outlining your work experience and education
Please reach out to Dr. Gray (dagray3@vt.edu) if you have any questions or concerns.