Overview

The Bridge to Research in AI and Neurocomputing (BRAIN) Core is a new University Core Facility providing training, technical support, and equipment to enhance research productivity with the latest computational tools and methods. It provides access to state-of-the-art expertise in three areas: machine learning and artificial intelligence, statistical analysis and experimental planning, and virtual and augmented reality. Major equipment (cloud and AI-ready high-performance computing), training, and technical assistance are available on a fee-for-service basis; see our fee structure below. Smaller equipment is free of charge. All users are welcome with priority given to Neuroscience investigators.

Fee structure
BRAIN Core logo, image of a brain with interconnected nodes

Services

Machine learning and artificial intelligence

  • AI and Machine Learning Consultation
  • AI and Machine Learning Development
  • AI and Machine Learning Prototyping
  • AI-Ready High Performance Computing Support
  • AI-Related Grant Proposal Support

Statistical analysis and research planning

  • Expert Consulting on the Latest Methods for Modeling Statistical Data
  • Statistical Power Analysis
  • Help Preparing Methods Sections of Grant Proposals and Publications
  • Research Planning and Design
  • Pre and Post Award Statistical Support

Virtual and augmented reality

  • VR/AR Software Development (using the Unity 3D engine)
  • VR/AR Equipment Rentals (headsets & computing hardware)
  • Consultation on VR/AR Equipment Selection for Research Projects
  • User Study Design and Execution

Director and staff

CMA Core Computer Vision, Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, Mixed Reality, Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Assistive Technology
Alireza Tavakkoli
Associate Professor and Director of Computational Modeling and Analysis Core
(775) 682-8426
WPEB 417
7271 Computer Vision, Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, Mixed Reality, Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Assistive Technology
CMA Core
Eelke Folmer
Professor and Chair, Virtual Reality
(775) 784-7592
WPEB 403
7271
CMA Core
Vacant Position
Core Technician
7271
CMA Core
Michael Rudd, Ph.D.
Statistical Consulting
(775) 228-5757
EMM 218
7271

Equipment supported by the BRAIN Core

 

Services provided to users

The facility provides a full range of advanced scientific computing, machine learning, and data analytics services to neuroscience investigators including COBRE project leaders, biomedical and engineering investigators, and other UNR researchers, as well as commercial entities including but not limited to Nevada Center for Applied Research (NCAR) affiliates in Reno, NV and beyond.

  • Technical support, assistance and training of core users
  • Free open access to basic machine learning and data analytics consultation through Q-Reserve scheduling
  • Hourly fees for design, development, statistical analysis, and deployment of machine learning and AI modeling through iLab scheduling
  • Support for the Neuro-CMB graduate seminar series to invite external speakers

Information for new and existing users

A Lab/Core Technician (tbd) on staff provides basic training and technical support in order to assist researchers with all of our equipment and software. For information about the core, please contact the core director Alireza Tavakkoli, Ph.D. at tavakkol@unr.edu, Eelke Folmer, Ph.D. at efolmer@cse.unr.edu or Michael Rudd, Ph.D. at mrudd@unr.edu.