Federal Project Grant Award Summary

The University of Rhode Island received a $528,114 Project Grant from the National Science Foundation's Division of Computing and Communication Foundations under the Computer and Information Science and Engineering program (CFDA 47.070) to develop advanced brain-computer interface (BCI) technologies for individuals with upper limb impairments. The project, awarded October 1, 2026 through September 30, 2029, delivers three integrated research products: an immersive multimodal BCI framework that simultaneously captures non-invasive brain activity, video, and kinematic data during virtual reality plan-to-grasp tasks; large graph-based deep learning models designed to decode complex neural dynamics, classify grip types, and predict movement kinematics; and a personalized real-time closed-loop virtual assistive arm-hand system validated on users with upper-limb impairment. These deliverables advance non-invasive neural signal decoding by combining decoded plan-to-grasp signals with shared human-artificial intelligence control methodologies to enable prosthetic arm control with broader range and capability than existing systems.

The project supports workforce development and knowledge dissemination through student training, K-12 outreach activities, open-source data and software sharing, and partnerships with Rhode Island community organizations focused on independent living and rehabilitation. The research generates fundamental advances in neuroscience understanding of macroscale neural representations and contributes to the broader NSF CISE portfolio's emphasis on artificial intelligence applications and human-machine interaction research.