Visuospatial memory in active vision

Eye movements and visuospatial memory constantly interact to shape an efficient representation of the world. The behavioral link between eye movements and holistic scene memory has been extensively demonstrated, yet it remains elusive how visual item memory dynamically unfolds in active vision. Understanding the interplay between eye movements and memory, and identifying its neural mechanisms, is crucial for grasping why memory declines in older adults and those with neurological disorders. The project proposes, based on fMRI evidence, that gaze reinstatement—redirecting one’s gaze to previously observed locations, even without the original visual stimuli—triggers the recall of those visual items. The hypothesis will be tested with magnetoencephalography (MEG), a non-invasive high-resolution technique for probing neural activities and representations across the cortical surface. We plan to create a gaze-dependent visuospatial memory task that allows for precise control over experimental conditions, facilitating the examination of visuospatial memory. By integrating cognitive studies of eye movements with memory, employing eye-tracking and MEG techniques, and analyzing neural oscillations and decoding, our project aims to uncover the neural basis of how eye movements enhance memory retrieval. This research will pave the way for further cognitive and clinical research into the complex relationship between action and cognition.

Faculty Supervisor:

Taufik Valiante

Student:

Partner:

Max-Planck-Institut für empirische Ästhetik

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Education

University:

University of Toronto

Program: