The effort lab investigates the neural basis of perceptual fatigue in neurological conditions using a range of techniques including behavioural paradigms, non-invasive brain stimulation, brain imaging and computational modelling.
Our previous work suggests that chronic, irreversible, central fatigue, one of the most common symptoms in neurological conditions arises from deficits in central sensorimotor processing. Our current work focuses on identifying the precise mechanisms that underlie the genesis of perceptual fatigue. Our primary working hypothesis is that perceptual fatigue arises from mis-calibration of effort mediated by poor sensory attenuation.
We are also interested in identifying the interactions between sensory attenuation, fatigue and sense of agency. Our theoretical work concentrates on modelling the relative contributions of sensorimotor, perceptual and emotional networks to fatigue in disease models.
Experiencing Fatigue: Explorations of post-stroke fatigue
Experiencing Fatigue is an artistic and scientific research project exploring experiences of post-stroke fatigue through stroke survivor’s own narratives and metaphors. Artist Sofie Layton lead groups of stroke survivors through creative workshops to explore their experiences. Inspired by these she is now commissioning and creating digital and physical artworks. In this conversation, scientists, artists and stroke survivors will explore the project, how it might inform scientific research and what it has revealed for all involved. You can see a written version of this talk here.
