Rotary Chair System equipped with Videonystagmography and pediatric assessment capabilities

About This Grant

Abstract We request funding to acquire the Interacoustics VisualEyes 525b rotary chair, videonystagmography (VNG) module, and the pediatric assessment kit to enhance interdisciplinary research and graduate training in vestibular science at the University of Memphis. This state-of-the-art system will replace our outdated and unserviceable unit, significantly expanding our capacity to investigate vestibular function across the lifespan, from infants to older adults, and to train the next generation of researchers and clinicians in audiology and related biomedical disciplines. The vestibular system is critical for balance and spatial orientation. Dysfunction in this system is a major independent risk factor for falls in older adults, contributing to increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. In children, vestibular disorders are linked to delayed motor development, cognitive challenges, and poor academic performance. Despite its clinical importance, many existing diagnostic tools lack the sensitivity and precision to fully evaluate vestibular deficits. The requested system provides advanced capabilities, including sinusoidal harmonic acceleration, step velocity testing, oculomotor examination, and visual fixation suppression. These features enable detailed assessment of both peripheral and central vestibular function, which is not possible with our current equipment. Importantly, the requested system includes pediatric-compatible components that allow for safe and reliable testing in young children. This instrument will directly support the work of multiple research labs within the School of Communication Sciences and Disorders, while also fostering collaboration across campus and regionally. The equipment will advance multiple NIH-relevant research initiatives, including: (1) vestibular function across the lifespan; (2) identification of physiological markers of vestibular dysfunction in clinical populations (e.g., Meniere’s disease and auditory neuropathy); (3) vestibular neuroplasticity; and (4) computational modeling of vestibular responses. At least four primary investigators with active research programs will use the system, with additional faculty integrating it into future projects. In addition to its research impact, the system will be fully integrated into graduate-level education. Over 40 Doctor of Audiology (AuD) and PhD students annually will receive hands-on training in advanced vestibular assessment, data acquisition, and interpretation. The system will support classroom instruction, lab demonstrations, and student-led capstone and dissertation projects. These educational experiences will build clinical competence and research proficiency. In summary, acquisition of the Interacoustics VisualEyes 525b system will strengthen the University of Memphis’s research infrastructure, promote interdisciplinary collaboration across audiology, neuroscience, engineering, and healthcare, and advance evidence-based approaches to vestibular education, and care.