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Prediction error computation in visual perception

Project description

Revealing fundamental neurocomputational mechanisms shaping perception

Prior knowledge shapes our perception. Predictive coding theories provide a framework for understanding how the brain incorporates this prior knowledge into our perception. One aspect of predictive coding is the computation of prediction errors, which are the differences between predictions and sensory input. Unresolved questions include how surprise is encoded in prediction errors across the visual cortex and whether surprise computation adapts to our goals. Moreover, we do not understand the networks and temporal dynamics involved in prediction and prediction error computations. With the support of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme, the PreVision project will address these knowledge gaps by integrating advanced neuroimaging techniques and artificial intelligence methods, shedding light on fundamental neurocomputational mechanisms driving perception.

Objective

Prior knowledge plays a central role in shaping our perception and interactions with the world. Predictive coding theories represent an influential framework formalizing the neural computations that underlie the integration of prior knowledge into perception. One central tenet of predictive coding is the computation of prediction errors, which signify the discrepancy between predictions, derived from our prior knowledge, and incoming sensory input. Despite ample empirical evidence supporting the existence of prediction errors, such as heightened sensory responses to unexpected compared to expected stimuli, several unresolved questions persist.
One pivotal question pertains to the nature of the surprise encoded in sensory prediction errors across the visual cortical hierarchy. Does the computation of prediction errors reflect local surprise, specific to each level in the visual hierarchy (e.g. surprising orientations in primary visual cortex)? Alternatively, is the coding of surprise inherited top-down, aligning with the notion of predictive coding that predictions are relayed from higher to lower areas? Furthermore, it remains unclear whether the computation of surprise dynamically adapts to our goals or remains a static feature of cortical tuning. Lastly, the networks and temporal dynamics that underlie prediction and prediction error computations are poorly understood.
Within the scope of the PreVision project, my objective is to address these critical knowledge gaps through the integration of advanced neuroimaging techniques and artificial intelligence methodologies, thereby shedding light on the fundamental neurocomputational mechanisms that drive perception. Consequently, this project represents an excellent opportunity for me to engage in innovative and pioneering research, investigating pressing questions within contemporary cognitive neuroscience, and significantly advance my scientific career.

Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)

Keywords

Programme(s)

Topic(s)

Funding Scheme

HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-PF-EF - HORIZON TMA MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships

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Call for proposal

(opens in new window) HORIZON-MSCA-2023-PF-01

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Coordinator

UNIVERSIDAD DE GRANADA
Net EU contribution
€ 185 786,88
Address
CUESTA DEL HOSPICIO SN
18071 Granada
Spain
Region
Sur Andalucía Granada
Activity type
Higher or Secondary Education Establishments
Links
Total cost
No data