Grants and Contributions:

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Title:

Single Photon Detection for Reliable Adult Neuromonitoring

Agreement Number:

1035682

Agreement Value:

$604,129.00

Agreement Date:

Oct 31, 2025 - Mar 31, 2028

Description:

Previous research (funded by CSTIP QSP-019-2) allowed for the development of a brain monitoring device based on advanced time-resolved Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (trNIRS) technology, which demonstrated the ability to measure metabolic activity in the brain-equivalent layer of realistic head models mimicking adult human anatomy. The Project aims to refine the technology and validate its capability to noninvasively monitor cerebral metabolism in adults. The Project Team will conduct a carotid occlusion study in a pig model of the adult head, inducing measurable changes in cerebral metabolism. Data collected with trNIRS probes positioned on the scalp will be compared against direct brain measurements to assess accuracy. Additionally, the device will be tested in adult volunteers performing finger tapping tasks to detect subtle cerebral metabolic changes with trNIRS probes on the scalp, over the motor cortex. The Project will also investigate integrating superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors (SNSPDs) into the trNIRS device to enhance brain sensitivity.

Organization:

National Research Council Canada

Expected Results:

In the short term, anticipated outcomes will be strengthened collaborations across industry, academia, and government to support research excellence. In the medium term, anticipated outcomes will be the development of new and potentially disruptive technologies with collaborators. In the long term, find collaborative solutions to public policy challenges and create stronger innovation systems.

Location:

London, Ontario, CA N6G 1G9

Reference Number:

172-2025-2026-Q3-1035682

Agreement Type:

Grant

Report Type:

Grants and Contributions

Recipient Business Number:

108162587

Recipient Type:

Academia

Recipient's Legal Name:

The University of Western Ontario

Federal Riding Name:

London Centre

Federal Riding Number:

35053

Program:

Collaborative Science, Technology and Innovation Program - Collaborative R&D Initiatives

Program Purpose:

Collaborate on multiparty research and development programs to catalyze transformative, high-risk, high-reward research with the potential for game-changing scientific discoveries and technological breakthroughs in priority areas.

NAICS Code:

541710