Visual and cognitive control of action

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A central function of the brain is movement. Indeed, successful interactions with the environment such as reaching to grasp one's morning cup of coffee are dependent on the brain's ability to generate appropriate motor commands. Introspectively, many of the movements that we perform on a day-to-day basis are simple; however, the brain's ability to coordinate multiple resources within our central and peripheral nervous systems is complex. The aim of this proposal is to better understand how the brain represents sensory, motor and cognitive information to support effective and efficient eye and limb movements. For example, what information from our visual world supports movement and what brain structures are involved in the visual control of action? How are individuals able to interact with objects that they do not consciously 'see' and where in the brain is this visual information processed (the phenomenon of action-blindsight)? What are the cognitive rules supporting movement and does the brain employ common or different rules for eye and limb movements? By addressing the aforementioned questions my work will expand our understanding of the functional interaction between brain structure and behaviour. Moreover, insights from this program may help advance the understanding of neuromotor disorders and aid in the development of rehabilitation programs that promote motor recovery and circumvent movement deficits.