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Christian F. DoellerView profile

Professor

• Cognitive Neuroscience
• Memory Psychology
• Spatial Navigation
• +6 more

Professor Christian F. Doeller is a leading cognitive neuroscientist serving as Director of the Department of Psychology at the Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences (MPI CBS) in Leipzig and Vice President of the Max Planck Society (since 2023). His roles include honorary professorships at the University of Leipzig (2019) and TU Dresden (Cognitive Neuroscience of Learning and Memory). He holds a PhD in Psychology from Saarland University (2005) and has held positions at institutions such as UCL (London), Radboud University (Nijmegen), and NTNU (Trondheim). His research focuses on spatial navigation, memory systems, and cognitive mapping in the human brain, leveraging neuroimaging (fMRI, EEG) and computational modeling. Key areas include hippocampal/entorhinal cortical function, grid cells, and the neural basis of spatial and conceptual representations. Recent work explores non-Euclidean spatial cognition, value-based decision making using grid-like maps, and hormonal influences on navigation. His lab combines experimental psychology, neuroimaging, and theoretical neuroscience to understand how brains build predictive models of environments and concepts. Publications emphasize cognitive maps, neural representations of space/value, and memory formation mechanisms. Over 100 journal articles span high-impact journals like Nature Neuroscience , Neuron , and Current Biology . His work bridges basic research and translational applications in neurodegenerative disorders and spatial cognition deficits.

Michelle CD BridiView profile

Assistant Professor

• Neuroscience
• Synaptic Plasticity
• Sleep Research
• +7 more

Michelle CD Bridi is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Neuroscience at West Virginia University School of Medicine , with a joint affiliation at the Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute . Her research integrates synaptic plasticity , sleep physiology , and neurological conditions to investigate dynamic synaptic regulation under typical and atypical states. Education: BS , McGill University, 2006 PhD , University of Pennsylvania, 2013 Research Focus: The Bridi Lab explores how daily oscillations in excitation/inhibition (E/I) balance are disrupted in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) , aging , and post-stroke states . Current projects address: 1) synaptic adaptation to sleep/wake cycles, 2) E/I imbalance in neurodevelopmental disorders, and 3) molecular mechanisms maintaining neuronal firing rate homeostasis. Publication Trends: Recent work spans REM sleep plasticity , autism models , and neurodegenerative interventions , emphasizing synaptic oscillations , NMDA receptor pathways , and gene therapy applications. Collaborative efforts with Morgan Bridi's lab extend findings to stress and stroke contexts. Grants & Collaborations: Research is funded by NIH/NIGMS , BBRF , and NSF . The lab actively collaborates with cross-institutional teams and is recruiting postdocs and students for ongoing studies.

Jeffrey L. KrichmarView profile

Professor

• Neurorobotics
• Embodied Cognition
• Biologically Plausible Neural Models
• +6 more

Jeffrey L. Krichmar is a Professor in the Department of Cognitive Sciences and Department of Computer Science at the University of California, Irvine. His academic journey includes a B.S. in Computer Science from the University of Massachusetts Amherst (1983), an M.S. in Computer Science from The George Washington University (1991), and a Ph.D. in Computational Sciences and Informatics from George Mason University (1997). Prior to UCI, he served as Assistant Professor at George Mason University (1997-1999) and Senior Fellow at The Neurosciences Institute (1999-2007). University of California, Irvine (2007-present) George Mason University (1997-1999) The Neurosciences Institute (1999-2007) His research focuses on neurorobotics , exploring how embodied cognition and biologically plausible neural models can enhance robotic systems. Key areas include spiking neural networks , neuromodulation , path planning , and interactive tactile robots for therapeutic applications. His work bridges neuroscience , robotics , and cognitive science , with applications in autonomous vehicles , neuroprosthetics , and AI explainability . Recent publications emphasize spiking neural networks for navigation , neuromodulated attention , and neuromorphic hardware integration. The development of CARLsim, a GPU-accelerated spiking neural network simulator now in version 6.0, represents a major technical contribution. His team's work on socially assistive robots like CARL-SJR targets therapeutic applications for autism and ADHD. Scientific Awards IJCNN 2020 Best Paper Award Finalist for Best Student Paper at IJCNN 2018 Best Paper Award at IEEE IJCNN 2009 Grants include National Science Foundation funding for neural models of decision-making (2009). His lab (Cognitive Anteater Robotics Laboratory) develops systems that use large-scale brain simulations for autonomous behavior , with applications in adaptive robotics , sensorimotor learning , and neuroethology . Current projects explore neuromodulatory influences on attention systems and cognitive flexibility .

Dennis NestvogelView profile

Researcher

• Neural Dynamics
• Behavioral Neuroscience
• Sensory Processing
• +7 more

Dennis Nestvogel is a Research Group Leader at the Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry in Munich, Germany, where he leads research in the department of Neural Dynamics and Behavior. His work focuses on understanding how behavioral states such as arousal, attention, and stress modulate sensory processing and decision-making in the brain. Research Interests: Dr. Nestvogel's research centers on thalamocortical network dynamics, brain oscillations, and state-dependent neural activity. He investigates how these processes influence sensory-guided behavior and how their disruption contributes to psychiatric disorders including schizophrenia, ADHD, and PTSD. His approach integrates in vivo intracellular recordings, high-density neural recordings, optogenetics, and mouse behavioral paradigms. Publication Trends: His recent publications reveal a strong focus on the neural mechanisms underlying waking states, sensory processing, and cortical dynamics. Themes include alpha oscillations, synaptic regulation, neuromodulation, and the impact of genetic mutations on stress sensitivity in psychiatric conditions. His work bridges molecular, systems, and cognitive neuroscience. Scientific Contributions: Investigating how behavioral states gate sensory input in the cortex Elucidating the role of thalamocortical circuits in arousal and attention Linking synaptic proteins like CAPS-1 to sensory adaptation Exploring genetic underpinnings of stress sensitivity in bipolar disorder Advising and Grants: While no students are listed, Dr. Nestvogel leads an independent research group, indicating leadership in mentoring junior scientists and managing research projects. His affiliation with the Max Planck Institute suggests access to substantial institutional funding and collaborative resources. Labs and Teams: He heads the research group within the Neural Dynamics and Behavior unit at the Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, collaborating closely with leading neuroscientists such as David A. McCormick. His lab utilizes cutting-edge techniques to probe brain function in awake, behaving animals.

• Computational Neuroscience
• Machine Learning
• Neural Networks
• +5 more

Prof. Sander Bohte is a part-time full professor of Computational Neuroscience at the University of Amsterdam (Swammerdam Institute of Life Sciences) and an honorary full professor of Bio-inspired Neural Networks at the University of Groningen. He serves as a Scientific Staff Member and Group Leader in the Machine Learning department at CWI, Amsterdam. His work bridges computational neuroscience and machine learning with a focus on continuous-time information processing. Key research interests include: Spiking Neural Networks with predictive coding and multi-compartment models Biologically Plausible Learning in recurrent and deep architectures Working Memory modeling via reinforcement learning Neuromorphic Computing for real-time systems and GPU acceleration His recent publications highlight trends in neural adaptation , predictive coding , and SNN hardware-software co-design . Awards include the Veni Innovational Research Grant (2004) and ERCIM grant (2013) . He actively supervises MSc theses and leads grants like the NWO KIC project 'Selfhealing Neuromorphic Systems' (2024).

Quentin S. FischerView profile

Academic

• Neuroscience
• Synaptic Plasticity
• Neural Rehabilitation
• +7 more

Quentin S. Fischer, Ph.D., is a Research Assistant Professor at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion (VTC), where he conducts neuroscience research within the Friedlander Lab. His work focuses on synaptic plasticity mechanisms, particularly long-term potentiation (LTP) and depression (LTD), in the context of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) and neural rehabilitation through stimulation. Education: Ph.D. in Psychology (Neuroscience program), University of California, Riverside Master of Arts in Psychology (Neuroscience program), University of California, Riverside Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (Behavioral Neuroscience program), University of Colorado, Boulder Dr. Fischer's research explores how patterns of synaptic stimulation influence calcium signaling and plasticity in both normal and injured brains, aiming to optimize noninvasive neurostimulation therapies such as magnetic or optical stimulation. His prior work extensively examined visual cortex plasticity, ocular dominance, and molecular signaling pathways involving PKA and calcineurin. The publication trends reflect a deep engagement with synaptic and cortical plasticity, particularly in visual systems, spanning molecular, cellular, and systems-level neuroscience. His early work focused on developmental and experience-dependent plasticity in visual cortex, while recent research aims to translate these findings into therapeutic strategies for brain injury. Professional Experience: Instructor, Baylor College of Medicine (Neuroscience; Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences) Postdoctoral Associate, Yale University Medical School, Dept. Ophthalmology & Visual Science Postdoctoral Research Associate, Ohio University, Neurobiology Program Graduate Student, University of California, Riverside Professional Research Associate II, University of Colorado Research Assistant, University of Colorado Dr. Fischer is actively involved in pre-clinical research and is part of the Friedlander Lab team, contributing to the development of evidence-based neural stimulation protocols for neurorehabilitation. No formal scientific awards or student mentorship details are listed in the provided text.

• Autism Spectrum Disorders
• Child Psychiatry
• Developmental Disabilities
• +8 more

Katarzyna Chawarska is the Emily Fraser Beede Professor of Child Psychiatry at Yale School of Medicine, with primary affiliation in the Child Study Center and secondary appointments in Pediatrics and Statistics. She is a leading expert in autism spectrum disorders (ASD), directing the NIH Autism Center of Excellence, the Social and Affective Neuroscience of Autism Program, and the Yale Toddler Developmental Disabilities Clinic. Education: PhD in Psychology, Yale University (2000) Post-Doctoral Fellowship, Yale University School of Medicine (2000) MS in Psychology, Yale University MPhil in Psychology, Yale University MA, Jagiellonian University (1986) Her research focuses on identifying early diagnostic markers and novel treatment targets in ASD, particularly in infants at risk due to familial, genetic, or perinatal factors. Her work integrates clinical assessment, neuroimaging, eye-tracking, and longitudinal design to understand the neurodevelopmental trajectories of autism. Her recent publications explore disrupted functional connectivity, atypical visual attention, social anhedonia, and familial recurrence in autism. She employs advanced methodologies including fMRI, eye movement dynamics, and machine learning to identify biomarkers. Her research spans developmental neuroscience, clinical psychology, genetics, and pediatric psychiatry, with strong emphasis on early detection and intervention. Scientific Awards: No specific awards mentioned in the provided text. Dr. Chawarska is the Principal Investigator on active clinical trials, including studies on emotional development in infants at risk for ASD and regulation of visual attention and emotion in autism. She mentors research through her lab and collaborates extensively with experts such as Fred Volkmar, James McPartland, and Frederick Shic. She leads the Chawarska Lab, which is part of the Center for Brain & Mind Health and the Wu Tsai Institute at Yale.

Sebastian SeungView profile

Professor

• Neuroscience
• Machine Learning
• Connectomics
• +5 more

Sebastian Seung is a Professor at Princeton University , affiliated with both the Department of Computer Science and the Princeton Neuroscience Institute . His career spans Harvard University (Ph.D., 1990), Bell Laboratories, and Massachusetts Institute of Technology before joining Princeton in 2014. An External Member of the Max Planck Society and 2008 Ho-Am Prize recipient, Seung merges machine learning with neuroscience . Research Focus : Pioneering connectomics , Seung developed technologies for reconstructing neural circuits from high-resolution brain images, including FlyWire for collaborative brain mapping. His work explores brain function, development, and plasticity , drawing parallels between fly visual systems and convolutional networks . Awards & Affiliations : 2008 Ho-Am Prize in Engineering External Member, Max Planck Society Technical Contributions : Led breakthroughs in 3D connected component labeling and high-throughput EM imaging for mammalian brains, partnering with NIH’s BRAIN Initiative to scale connectomics to whole mouse brains. Seung’s team has shifted from EM analysis to interpreting connectomes , focusing on neural circuit function and biological mechanisms in flies and mice. His lab alumni network spans institutions, advancing AI and neuroscience globally.

Alexei KoulakovView profile

Professor

• Neuroscience
• Theoretical Neurobiology
• Applied Mathematics
• +5 more

Alexei Koulakov is a Professor at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL) and the Charles Robertson Professor of Neuroscience. His research focuses on applying mathematical and computational approaches to unravel the principles of brain organization, particularly in sensory systems like olfaction and vision. Koulakov's work explores how neural circuits form during development, the role of genetic and experiential factors, and the evolutionary basis of brain architecture. Education: PhD in Physics from the University of Minnesota (1998). Key Research Areas: Olfactory system development, neural network modeling, and AI inspired by biological computation. Koulakov's recent publications emphasize cross-disciplinary integration of neuroscience and AI, including NeuroAI initiatives and DeepNose models predicting olfactory percepts. His team investigates how innate abilities are encoded genomically and how experience shapes neural networks. Scientific contributions include studies on primacy coding in olfaction, stochastic learning mechanisms , and high-throughput neural mapping . Awards include the Charles Robertson Professorship , reflecting his leadership in theoretical neuroscience. Koulakov collaborates extensively, with notable work on genomic bottlenecks , odor mixture interactions , and neural integrator models . His lab at CSHL is at the forefront of NeuroAI research, leveraging brain circuit insights to advance artificial intelligence.

Megan CareyView profile

Researcher

• Neuroscience
• Cerebellar Research
• Motor Learning
• +3 more

Megan Carey is a Researcher at the Champalimaud Foundation , leading the Carey Lab . Her research focuses on understanding how cellular and synaptic mechanisms in the cerebellum influence motor behavior and learning. Key projects include studies on cerebellar neural circuits, locomotor adaptation, and sensory-motor integration. Her recent work highlights cross-species comparisons (mice and flies), zebrafish visual system neurobiology, and pharmacological modulation of motor learning. The lab employs genetic perturbations, optogenetics, and behavioral analysis to dissect neural circuit dynamics. Notable collaborators include senior scientists, postdoctoral researchers, and PhD students. The lab's publications span high-impact journals like J. Neurosci. , eLife , and Neuron , with funding from HHMI and NIH.

Ju LuView profile

Assistant Professor

• Neuroscience
• Neural Circuitry
• Synaptic Plasticity
• +3 more

Ju Lu serves as an Assistant Professor at Lehigh University with office location in Iacocca Hall (room 0111), contactable via phone (610.758-3687) and email (jul724@lehigh.edu). Her academic position reflects active engagement in neuroscience research and education within the university's life sciences framework. Education Background: Ph.D. in Neurobiology from Harvard University (2008) B.Eng. in Microelectronics from Tsinghua University (2002) Research Focus: Dr. Lu's work pioneers investigations into neural circuit dynamics and synaptic plasticity mechanisms using advanced optical imaging technologies. Her research spans: Cortical circuit reorganization during motor skill acquisition across species Stress-induced synaptic alterations mediated by microglia in prefrontal circuits Therapeutic applications of psychedelic compounds for neural circuit restoration Development of three-photon microscopy for deep-brain imaging Genetically-encoded neurotransmitter sensors for in vivo studies This multidisciplinary approach bridges molecular neuroscience, systems-level circuit analysis, and translational mental health applications. Publication Trends: Analysis of Dr. Lu's 15 most recent publications (2016-2023) reveals an evolving trajectory from foundational studies on dendritic spine plasticity toward translational neuroscience. Early work emphasized optical imaging methodology and basic plasticity mechanisms, while her 2021-2023 publications increasingly focus on stress-related circuit disruptions and psychedelic therapeutics. A consistent thread involves combining high-resolution in vivo imaging with behavioral models to establish causal links between neural circuit dynamics and cognitive functions. Honors and Awards: No scientific awards or fellowships were documented in the provided materials. Mentorship and Funding: While specific student mentees and grant funding details are not specified in the source text, her extensive collaborative publication record indicates active supervision of research personnel and successful acquisition of research support. Research Infrastructure: Her methodological expertise in advanced microscopy suggests utilization of specialized imaging facilities, though no dedicated laboratory or research team is explicitly identified in the available documentation.

Marlene BehrmannView profile

Professor

• Cognitive Neuroscience
• Cognitive Science
• Visual Perception
• +4 more

Marlene Behrmann is the Thomas S. Baker University Professor of Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU), affiliated with the Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences. She leads the Behrmann Lab, which moved to the University of Pittsburgh in 2023. Her research focuses on visual cognition, object recognition, and neural mechanisms of perception, with a particular emphasis on face and word recognition. Behrmann holds a B.A. and M.A. in Speech and Hearing Therapy and a Ph.D. in Psychology from the University of Toronto. She is a leader in her field, recognized by her induction into the National Academy of Sciences (2015) and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences (2019). Her work combines neuropsychological studies of patients with brain damage, neuroimaging, and computational modeling to explore visual processing. Recent research highlights include studies on dorsal-ventral pathway interactions, functional reorganization post-hemispherectomy, and autism-related sensory processing differences. Behrmann has advised numerous graduate students and postdocs, contributing to their academic and professional development. Key awards include her National Academy of Sciences membership and American Academy of Arts and Sciences fellowship. Her lab collaborates widely, publishing in top journals like Cerebral Cortex , PNAS , and Trends in Cognitive Sciences . She also engages in translational research to improve interventions for perceptual and cognitive disorders.

Koen HaakView profile

Associate Professor

• Vision Science
• Neuroimaging
• Machine Learning
• +4 more

Dr. Koen Haak is an Associate Professor at Tilburg University's Department of Cognitive Science and Artificial Intelligence within the Tilburg School of Humanities and Digital Sciences. His research focuses on vision science, neuroimaging, and AI applications in healthcare. He leads projects like 'Bridging the gap between visual function and functional vision' (NWO Vidi) and 'Neuroimaging biomarkers for predicting vision training success after stroke' (NWO KIC). He collaborates with institutions such as the Donders Institute and the Lifelong Vision Consortium. His work contributes to UN SDGs related to health and innovation. Research interests include analyzing brain imaging data to predict functional vision outcomes, developing machine learning tools for clinical trials, and studying visual cortex plasticity. He has authored 51+ publications, including papers in Nature Neuroscience and Translational Psychiatry . Awards include NWO Veni (2016) and Vidi (2020) fellowships. He teaches courses on computer vision and AI at Tilburg University. Current projects explore predictive analytics for eye treatments, thalamocortical connectivity, and sleep disruption effects in maritime pilots. His lab develops methods like connectopic mapping and deep learning for MRI analysis, with applications in Alzheimer's, autism, and psychiatric disorders.

• Cellular Neuroscience
• Systems Neuroscience
• Behavioral Neuroscience
• +3 more

Prof. Laura Busse is a Professor at Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU), leading the Research Group in the Department of Biology II, Division Neurobiology. She holds roles as a Regular Member of MCN, Full Member of GSN, and Deputy Head of the GSN Examination Board. Her research focuses on cellular and systems neuroscience, particularly investigating how contextual information influences visual perception through neural circuits in mice. Key areas include feedback mechanisms, behavioral state effects, and thalamocortical interactions. Her work employs advanced techniques like high-density extracellular recordings and optogenetics to study active behavior in rodents. Current students include Simon Renner, Gregory Born, and others. Recent research highlights include studies on corticothalamic feedback effects, thalamic spatial integration, and the role of pupil dynamics in neural activity. She leads the Vision Circuits Lab (https://visioncircuitslab.org), exploring how sensory inputs and brain states shape visual processing. Her articles reveal trends in understanding thalamocortical communication, adaptive sensory systems, and the biological basis of neural network models. She coordinates the SPP2411 project on cortico-subcortical loops, emphasizing interdisciplinary neuroscience.

Serge O. DumoulinView profile

Professor

• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Neuroscience
• Neuroimaging
• +8 more

Serge O. Dumoulin is a Professor of Perception, Cognition, and Neuroscience at Utrecht University and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. He leads the Computational Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging group at the Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience and serves as Director of the Spinoza Centre for Neuroimaging , a collaborative facility involving KNAW, AMC, VUMC, and VU Amsterdam. Education: M.Sc. in Biology (Utrecht University), Ph.D. in Neurology and Neurosurgery (McGill University) Research focuses on the intersection of perception, cognition, and neuroimaging, particularly the human visual system. He employs ultra-high field (7T) fMRI, computational modeling, and behavioral studies to explore neural mechanisms of visual perception, attention, and numerical cognition. His work has applications in clinical disorders and methodological advancements like the pRF method, used globally in 100+ institutions. Publications span neuroscience, neuroimaging, and cognitive processes, with a 2023 Advances in MRI Technology paper emphasizing gray-matter optimized fMRI. His 2018 Neuroimage article discusses systematic pRF variations, while a 2021 PNAS study links divisive normalization to visual hierarchy. Awards: Ammodo KNAW Award (2015), NWO Vidi/Vici grants, Neuroimage Editors' Choice Award (2013) Teaching includes courses at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam on perception, neuroscience, and fMRI data analysis. He emphasizes coding (Matlab/Python) in student internships.