John Rinzel

John Rinzel is a Professor of Neural Science and Mathematics at New York University, affiliated with the Center for Neural Science and the Courant Institute. He holds academic positions within the College of Arts and Science and the Graduate School of Arts and Science. His research focuses on computational neuroscience, integrating biophysical mechanisms with mathematical modeling to understand neural computations at cellular and network levels.

Education: Ph.D. in Mathematics (1973) and M.S. in Mathematics (1968) from NYU’s Courant Institute, and a B.S. in Engineering from the University of Florida (1967).

• Ph.D. in Mathematics, NYU Courant Institute (1973)
• M.S. in Mathematics, NYU Courant Institute (1968)
• B.S. in Engineering, University of Florida (1967)

Research Interests: Rinzel studies biophysical mechanisms underlying neural computations, including dendritic computation, neuronal excitability, auditory pathway modeling, perceptual bistability, and rhythmic timing. His work combines theoretical models with experimental collaborations, emphasizing reduced biophysical models for cellular and network-level dynamics.

Recent research trends include auditory streaming, perceptual dynamics, and rhythmic beat generation in music. His models explore gamma oscillations, thalamic spindle rhythms, and sleep-related neural excitability. Publications highlight applications in sensory processing, neural network oscillations, and cognitive functions like attention and memory coordination.

No scientific awards explicitly listed. Rinzel leads a research group focusing on computational neuroscience, collaborating on projects involving auditory neuroscience, mathematical biology, and theoretical neurophysiology. His lab is part of NYU’s Center for Neural Science, fostering interdisciplinary approaches to brain function.