Minds in Motion: Register | UCL Research Study

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What is Minds in Motion?

Minds in Motion is a scientific study at University College London investigating how the built environment shapes the way people think, move, and feel. It is a follow-up to 100 Minds in Motion, a landmark experiment that took place at UCL PEARL in September 2024.

The study is led by Professor Hugo Spiers (UCL Experimental Psychology) and Dr Fiona Zisch (UCL Bartlett School of Architecture). It takes place in September 2026. We are now in our recruitment phase and will share the full schedule with all registered participants as soon as it is confirmed.

What will I actually do?

You will visit UCL PEARL, a unique research facility in Dagenham, East London, and be guided through a specially configured architectural space. You might wear a set of lightweight, non-invasive biosensors that capture things like movement, EEG, and gaze. The sensors are comfortable to wear and are fitted by a member of the research team before you begin.

No special knowledge, skills, or fitness level is needed. A researcher will brief you fully before you start, and you are free to stop at any point. The whole session lasts roughly one hour in total, including setup and debrief.

When and where?

The study takes place in September 2026 at UCL PEARL (Person-Environment-Activity Research Laboratory) in Dagenham, East London. Exact dates and session times are being confirmed and will be shared with all registered participants as soon as they are set.

UCL PEARL is accessible by public transport. Full travel and access information will be included with your booking confirmation. If you have specific requirements, please flag them when we get in touch.

Who can take part?

The study is open to all adults aged 18 and over. We actively encourage applications from people across all backgrounds and experiences.

You do not need any scientific background or specialist knowledge.

Participation is entirely voluntary. You may withdraw at any time, before or during the study, without giving a reason and without any consequence.

Why does this research matter?

Most of us spend more than 90% of our lives inside buildings, yet we know surprisingly little about how the spaces around us affect the way we think, feel, and behave. Neuroarchitecture sits at the intersection of architecture and neuroscience, using cutting-edge measurement tools to ask questions that neither field could answer alone.

The findings have direct real-world applications. Understanding how spatial design influences stress, attention, and navigation can change how we design hospitals, schools, stations, and other public buildings. By taking part, you contribute evidence that will shape the environments of millions of people.

What was 100 Minds in Motion?

In September 2024, over 100 participants from a wide range of backgrounds took part in an experiment at UCL PEARL. Using moveable architectural partitions, overhead cameras, and wearable biosensors (including EEG headsets, and eye trackers), researchers studied how different spatial configurations affect the way people move, navigate, and respond physiologically across 4,000 m² of controllable lab space.

The study received coverage from MIT Technology Review, UCL News, and Autodesk Research. Minds in Motion continues and expands this research programme.