Pepe Alcami

Dr. Pepe Alcami is a Principal Investigator leading the Alcami Lab at Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU) and associated with the Max Planck Institute for Biological Intelligence. His research focuses on neurobiological computations underlying natural behavior in songbirds, particularly investigating how neural circuits enable complex vocal learning and social interaction. He combines experimental and computational approaches, including electrophysiology, biophysical modeling, and advanced microscopy.

Key projects include studying electrical synapses' roles in neural networks, social modulation of singing behavior, and axonal/myelin contributions to neural communication. Collaborations span institutions like the Max Planck Institute for Ornithology and international universities. He teaches advanced neuroscience courses at LMU and mentors PhD/Master’s students in experimental and computational neuroscience.

Publications highlight discoveries on songbird vocal plasticity, electrical synapse dynamics, and axonal mitochondrial effects. The lab emphasizes interdisciplinary methods to bridge cellular mechanisms with behavioral outputs, contributing to understanding fundamental principles of nervous system function.