# CRCNS US-Israel Research Proposal: NSF-BSF: The Perception of Time and Memorability in the Visual Hierarchy

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · George Mason University (VA) · $734,430

## Abstract

This project aims to explore how the brain processes time when looking at images, with important implications for understanding memory, learning, and visual perception. The investigators have discovered that memorable images - those more likely to be remembered later - are also perceived as lasting longer in time than forgettable ones. This finding suggests that the perception of time relates to the gathering and remembering of visual information. The research team will conduct experiments using brain imaging, eye tracking, and computer modeling to understand how this process works across different parts of the visual system. This work could lead to better treatments for conditions like Alzheimer's disease, autism, and schizophrenia, where both time perception and visual memory are disrupted. The project will also advance artificial intelligence by creating new computer models that process images more like humans do, incorporating time as a feature that current AI systems ignore. The researchers intend to develop a public database of images with time perception information that can train AI systems to predict how long visual scenes will be remembered by humans, potentially improving a wide range of AI tools including educational software that adapts to how students process visual information. 

Technically, the project is designed to investigate whether memorable images undergo prioritized processing that dynamically extends temporal windows to maximize information extract

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2508756
- **Awardee organization:** George Mason University (VA)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** EADLFP7Z72E5
- **PI:** Martin Wiener
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** Artificial Intelligence (AI), COGNEURO, CRCNS, Understanding the Brain/Cognitive Scienc
- **Estimated total:** $734,430
- **Funds obligated:** $734,430
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2029

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2508756

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2508756, CRCNS US-Israel Research Proposal: NSF-BSF: The Perception of Time and Memorability in the Visual Hierarchy. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2508756. Licensed CC0.

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