# EFRI BEGIN OI: Biocomputation of Dynamic Patterns with Cortical Neuronal Organoids

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Lehigh University (PA) · $2,000,000

## Abstract

Information processing in the brain has inspired advances in artificial intelligence. However, some aspects of information processing in the brain have been difficult to translate to conventional hardware and software. Neurons in the cortex of the brain can process temporal and spatial information simultaneously, unlike artificial neural networks. This may explain why human brains can make sense of moving visual scenes accurately and without significant effort. This award will support a project to explore the use of layered biological neural networks for processing dynamic visual information. Connections between layers will be guided by harnessing natural development to mimic the visual pathway in the brain. Fully developed and trained, these layered biological neural networks will be used for identification of moving objects in videos. Ethical, legal, and social implications (ELSI) of the use of human-derived neurons to create organoids will be examined. Technology developed during the project may have significant impact on national needs such as improving energy efficiency of artificial intelligence and endowing autonomous systems with improved vision. Research findings will be incorporated into courses, and undergraduate students will be recruited to participate in the project to promote their interest in research. K-12 outreach will also be undertaken to promote student interest in higher education and engineering.

This project will address long-standing challenges in 

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2515371
- **Awardee organization:** Lehigh University (PA)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** E13MDBKHLDB5
- **PI:** Yevgeny Berdichevsky
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** —
- **Estimated total:** $2,000,000
- **Funds obligated:** $2,015,650
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2029

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2515371

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2515371, EFRI BEGIN OI: Biocomputation of Dynamic Patterns with Cortical Neuronal Organoids. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2515371. Licensed CC0.

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