# Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality Core

> **NIH NIH P20** · UNIVERSITY OF NEVADA RENO · 2020 · $111,759

## Abstract

PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT
Virtual and Augmented Reality Interaction Core
We request funds to establish a new Virtual and Augmented Reality Interaction (VARI) Core as part of the
COBRE for Integrative Neuroscience. The core will be directed and managed by Dr. Eelke Folmer, associate
professor in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, who specializes in augmented and virtual
reality research. Virtual reality and augmented reality are considered essential to the next generation of visual
and cognitive neuroscience research programs because of the novel and highly improved opportunities to
provide controlled immersive stimulus experiences that allow analysis of perception, cognition, and behavior in
naturalistic visual environments and tasks. The goal of this core in phase II is to establish the equipment,
training and services required for neuroscience research using virtual reality and augmented reality resources.
The VARI core will be bootstrapped with virtual reality and augmented reality equipment using an institutional
commitment. Specifically, the core will include: (1) a VisuaStim Digital portable virtual reality headset that can
be used inside an FMRI scanner; (2) an SMI Vision eye tracking VR headset with external camera; (3) a
Microsoft Hololens stereoscopic head mounted see-through holographic display; and (4) head-mounted virtual
reality displays (Oculus Rift and HTC Vive) featuring high accuracy head-, hand- and full body-tracking
capabilities and virtual locomotion input (Virtuix Omni). The core will offer training and workshops in usage of
this equipment. In addition, the core will offer software development services for developing virtual reality and
augmented reality applications. This technology and services are essential to efficiently support the growing
cluster of visual and cognitive neuroscience faculty at UNR. This core will directly support the aims of two
COBRE project investigators (Dr. MacNeilage and Dr. Feil-Seifer) and enhance the scope and quality of
several additional research groups (including two graduated COBRE project leaders and one current pilot
leader) within the Psychology Department as well as other UNR investigators.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 9984409
- **Project number:** 5P20GM103650-09
- **Recipient organization:** UNIVERSITY OF NEVADA RENO
- **Principal Investigator:** Eelke Folmer
- **Activity code:** P20 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2020
- **Award amount:** $111,759
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** — → —

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/9984409

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 9984409, Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality Core (5P20GM103650-09). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-22 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/9984409. Licensed CC0.

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