Simon Wiegert

Simon Wiegert is a Professor of Neurophysiology and Chair of Neurophysiology at the Medical Faculty Mannheim of Heidelberg University. His research focuses on understanding how synaptic connectivity and neuromodulatory systems regulate memory formation, learning processes, and cognitive performance. He leads the Synaptic Wiring Lab, developing cutting-edge optical tools like optogenetics and fiber photometry to study neuronal networks. Key projects include investigating catecholaminergic, serotonergic, and cholinergic systems' roles in brain state regulation and synaptic plasticity.

Wiegert has secured major grants including an ERC Proof of Concept (2024) for hyperspectral fiber photometry and an AIH Fellowship (2023) for studying anesthesia effects using deep learning. His work spans from molecular mechanisms of synaptic stability to translational approaches bridging mouse models and human applications. Notable contributions include engineering optogenetic tools like Aion and BiPOLES, enabling precise control of neural circuits. His lab employs advanced microscopy, electrophysiology, and optogenetic techniques to dissect hippocampal circuit dynamics and their implications for memory.

• Education & Training: PhD in Neurophysiology, postdoctoral training in optogenetic methodologies.
• Grants: DFG SPP 1926 (Next-gen optogenetics), EU ERC Starting Grant (LIFE synapses), and multiple DFG FOR projects on synaptic plasticity.
• Awards: ERC Proof of Concept Grant (2024), AIH Fellowship (2023).

His research integrates molecular, cellular, and systems neuroscience, emphasizing the interplay between synaptic wiring and cognitive functions. Ongoing projects explore how arousal states modulate hippocampal activity and memory consolidation.