What happens when our sense of self extends beyond the biological body?
Neuroscientist Dr. Amir Jahanian Najafabadi investigates how the brain and bodily self adapt when our actions and presence extend into avatars, virtual environments, tools and remotely controlled systems. His research explores embodied cognition and the plasticity of body, space and time perception – from body ownership and agency to VR/AR, avatars and human–drone interaction.
Guided by XR developer and researcher Anastasiia Skryzhadlovska, the conversation connects cognitive neuroscience with immersive technology to explore what happens when where we are, what we control and what we perceive as part of ourselves begin to shift.
How can a deeper understanding of embodiment and remote presence help us create the next generation of more intuitive, embodied and human-centered virtual worlds?