Future Directions and Projects in Research

Physiology of the Visual System and Visual Processing of Moving Patterns and Features

A large part of our current effort is directed at understanding and modelling neurons involved in detection of moving features and 'optical flow' patterns induced by movement by an animal through its habitat. Much of our work uses 'natural' stimuli - images that we derive from the outside world, and computer animations of those images. We are also very interested in neurons that are able to respond to features or objects that move against complex, cluttered backgrounds. To study the physiology of both neuron classes, we record responses intracellularly using sharp microelectrodes. We examine their responses to moving patterns presented on a computer display and then study the connections between the neurons using intracellular labelling with fluorescent dye.

We are also collaborating with Industry to develop robust models for adaptive motion detectors, based on insect vision, for implementation in silicon hardware. Applications for this technology include the aerospace industry, guidance systems for miniature autonomous vehicles and for embedded collision avoidance sensors that can be incorporated into future motor vehicles.

Please click the links in the side-bar  for information about specific projects under way in the lab at present, and for information about honours and PhD projects currently available