Giovanna Citti is a Full Professor in the Department of Mathematics at the University of Bologna. Her research focuses on sub-Riemannian geometry, mathematical analysis, and neurogeometry, with a particular emphasis on modeling the functional architecture of the visual and motor cortices. She develops geometric frameworks to understand neural processing in the brain, including models of visual perception and motor control. Her work integrates concepts from differential geometry, partial differential equations (PDEs), and Lie group theory to analyze sub-Riemannian structures. She explores regularity properties of subelliptic PDEs and applies these to biological systems, such as the cortical organization of the visual cortex and motor pathways. Recent efforts include developing brain-inspired neural networks and studying neurogeometric models of stereo vision and 3D perception. Key contributions include sub-Riemannian models of perceptual completion, cortical-based optimal transport frameworks, and analysis of geometric optical illusions. Her research bridges pure mathematics and neuroscience, addressing challenges in both fields through innovative interdisciplinary approaches.



