From Fixation to Footstep: Human Cortical, Oculomotor, and Gait-Linked Predictors of Real-World Spatial Navigation

• Applicants: Dr. Tzvetan Popov; Professor Dr. Christian Wienbruch
• Subject Area: Biological Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience ; General, Cognitive and Mathematical Psychology ; Human Cognitive and Systems Neuroscience
• Term: since 2026
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 571278583

How does the brain maintain and execute spatial navigation plans in the absence of external cues? Inspired by rodent research on hippocampal phase coding and spontaneous alternation, this project investigates the neurophysiological manifestation of human spatial decision-making during real-world navigation. Using mobile EEG, wearable eye-tracking, and motion capture in a naturalistic environment, the present proposal aims to test whether cortical alpha dynamics and gaze biases during stationary planning phases predict upcoming navigational decisions - including errors. In addition, it is examined whether human gait aligns rhythmically to cortical activity, similar to hippocampal step-phase coupling in rodents. Two experiments systematically vary working memory load and walking speed to assess alpha- gaze- gait interactions. The findings will bridge invasive animal studies and non-invasive human neuroscience, offering a novel window into embodied cognition and navigational planning.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants