Ian Davison

Ian Davison is an Associate Professor of Biology Education at Boston University. His research focuses on neural circuits underlying perception and behavior in olfaction, with a particular emphasis on the vomeronasal system and cortical networks. He also investigates the pathophysiology of traumatic brain injury (TBI) using high-resolution imaging in rodent models. Davison holds a PhD from Simon Fraser University and teaches courses such as BI520/NE520 Sensory Neurobiology and BI741/NE741 Neural Systems I: Functional Circuit Analysis.

His research interests span three core areas: (1) the neural mechanisms linking chemical cues to innate and learned social behaviors, including aggression and courtship; (2) developing novel imaging tools for studying neural activity in freely moving animals; and (3) understanding TBI-induced changes in cortical activity and cerebral blood flow. His lab employs genetic tools, electrophysiology, and advanced microscopy techniques to study these topics.

Davison has contributed to over 40 peer-reviewed articles, with recent work emphasizing computational imaging advancements like EDoF-Miniscope and self-supervised denoising algorithms for voltage imaging. His educational efforts include integrating cutting-edge neurobiology concepts into graduate-level curricula while fostering interdisciplinary approaches to neuroscience education.

Lab activities involve collaborations with engineering teams to develop next-generation neural imaging devices, alongside behavioral studies of social learning in mice. Future directions aim to bridge clinical TBI research with neurotechnological innovations for diagnostic and therapeutic applications.