John Van Opstal

John Van Opstal is a Professor of Biophysics at Radboud University's Faculty of Science, where he serves as Director of the Donders Centre for Neuroscience. His research combines psychophysics, electrophysiology, and computational modeling to study sensorimotor integration and auditory perception.

• PhD in Biophysics from Radboud University (1988)

Van Opstal's work focuses on neurophysiology, auditory perception, and computational neuroscience, particularly in eye-head gaze control and multisensory integration. He pioneered the concept of sound localization as an action-perception problem, demonstrating its adaptability through visual input. His lab's systems-theoretical models have significantly influenced understanding of neural dynamics in the Superior Colliculus and Inferior Colliculus.

He has secured major grants, including a 2016 ERC Advanced Grant (ORIENT; 2.6M€) and a 2005 NWO VICI grant (1.5M€), leading to impactful collaborations in neuromorphic robotics and hearing-aid technology. His achievements include a 2017 Academia Europaea membership and contributions to sensorineural feedback systems for cochlear implants.

• Member of Academia Europaea (2017)
• ERC Advanced Grant (2016): ORIENT (2017-2022; 2.6M€)
• STW Perspective Programme NeuroCIMT (2015; 500k€)
• EU Innovative Doctoral Programme Grant (2013; 3.5M€)
• EU Innovative Network Grants (2013-2012; iCARE, NETT)
• Advanced Bionics Research Grants (2012, 2017)
• NWO VICI Grant (2005; 1.5M€)
• Human Frontiers Science Grant (1998; 1.5M US$)
• 9M€+ in research grants (2010-2017)

His lab is renowned for its h-index of 46 and 6,200+ citations, reflecting the impact of his work on sensorimotor control, auditory neuroscience, and neurotechnology applications.