Université LavalPain and Learning Lab
EN FR

Research

We combine brain imaging, computational modelling and artificial intelligence to understand how pain is perceived and modulated.

Axis 1

Computational models of pain learning and decision-making

Figure 2, Expectations and uncertainty shape pain perception during learning
Figure 2 · Expectations and uncertainty shape pain perception during learning. The Journal of Pain, 2025 · Licence CC BY 4.0

This theoretical research axis aims to identify coherent computational and neural architectures that can explain and predict pain perception and pain avoidance.

Related work

Axis 2

Neural oscillations and biomarkers of pain

Figure 1, No effect of rhythmic visual stimulation on experimental pain perception
Figure 1 · No effect of rhythmic visual stimulation on experimental pain perception. Pain, 2026 · Licence CC BY-NC-ND 4.0

This data-driven research axis aims to identify and interpret sensitive, specific, and generalizable brain biomarkers of pain perception that can predict pain intensity across individuals and pain modalities.

Related work

  • 2026
    A comprehensive physiological dataset of pain and aversive modalities for pain biomarkers research Upcoming Champagne, A., Barrette, L.-E., Cyr-Bouchard, A., Roy, M., & Coll, M.-P.
  • 2026
    Distinct EEG microstate signatures across different pain types Upcoming Rabiei, P., Champagne, A., Barrette, L.-È., Fakhry, N., Massé-Alarie, H., & Coll, M.-P.
  • 2026
    No effect of rhythmic visual stimulation on experimental pain perception Roy, N., Deslauriers, C., Côté-Cazes, T., Etcheverry, A., & Coll, M.-P. Pain, 167(9), e441–e452. doi:10.1097/j.pain.0000000000004044
  • 2025
    Towards Generalizable Learning Models for EEG-Based Identification of Pain Perception Rezzouk, M., Gagnon, F., Champagne, A., Roy, M., Albouy, P., Coll, M.-P., & Subakan, C. 2025 IEEE 35th International Workshop on Machine Learning for Signal Processing (MLSP), 1–6. doi:10.1109/MLSP62443.2025.11204206

Current research projects

We conduct a wide range of research projects examining pain perception in humans. As part of these studies, participants are invited to complete various computer-based tasks and questionnaires, either in laboratory settings (Cirris, Université Laval, or the CERVO Neuroimaging Unit) or remotely.

Some projects may involve exposure to mild to moderately painful or unpleasant stimuli that are safe, well controlled, and always administered in compliance with current ethical standards. In certain studies, brain activity as well as various physiological signals may also be recorded using non-invasive methods.

Examples of ongoing projects

  • A study aimed at developing and interpreting predictive models of pain using electroencephalography (EEG)
  • A study investigating how pain perception is influenced by learning
  • A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) study examining the interaction between exploration and learning in pain perception
  • A study combining two neuroimaging methods (MRI and EEG) to better understand how the brain processes pain

Examples of the equipment used

Thermode
ThermodePainful heat stimulation
Electroencephalography (EEG)
Electroencephalography (EEG)Brain activityImage credit: RIDC NeuroMat, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)Brain activityImage credit: UNiC, CERVO Neuroimaging Unit

Take part in a study

We recruit volunteers for our studies on pain perception, in the lab or remotely. The stimulations we use are safe, well controlled, and always comply with current ethical standards.

Express your interest Email the team

The form opens in Google Forms.

Funding

These projects are made possible thanks to the support of the following funding agencies.