# Next generation Magnetoencephalography for human social neuroscience

> **NIH NIH R01** · VIRGINIA POLYTECHNIC INST AND ST UNIV · 2021 · $582,239

## Abstract

PROJECT SUMMARY
This proposal develops the next generation magnetoencephalography (MEG) for human social neuroscience by
combining the latest available technology in optically-pumped magnetometers (OPMs) and magnetically
shielded rooms (MSRs). Successful completion of the proposed research and development will enhance MEG's
ease of use to enable the first ever 2-person face-to-face MEG recordings of social interactions. Motivated by a
pressing need to improve the relevance of human neuroimaging - which includes upright, social movement -
scalp-based sensors represent the most promising set of technologies that are both available now and are also
expected to enjoy major improvements over the next several decades. While electroencephalography (EEG)
and functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) are currently capable of such recordings, both suffer from
limitations that would be complimented or ameliorated by “untethered” MEG. Within this context, the research
objectives of this proposal are threefold. First, Aim 1 integrates the latest generation of OPM sensors and MSR
technology to deliver a next generation platform for OPM-MEG experiments. These data, then provide a positive
control to use this system for multi-person, movement tolerant neuroimaging in Aim 2. Finally, in Aim 3 we will
evaluate sensor mounting strategies and source reconstructions strategies that will avoid obscuring parts of the
face and could reduce cost and improve experimental ease. The work proposed will conducted by an assembled
team of the world's leading academic and industry experts in OPM-MEG, magnetic shielding, social
neuroimaging, and neuroimaging data analysis.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10224930
- **Project number:** 5R01EB028772-02
- **Recipient organization:** VIRGINIA POLYTECHNIC INST AND ST UNIV
- **Principal Investigator:** STEPHEN M LACONTE
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2021
- **Award amount:** $582,239
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2020-08-01 → 2024-04-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10224930

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10224930, Next generation Magnetoencephalography for human social neuroscience (5R01EB028772-02). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-23 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10224930. Licensed CC0.

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