Progress in the understanding of complex systems like the brain can only be achieved by integrating models on many different scales. The research performed at the institute for Computational and Systems Neuroscience develops such multi-scale models of the brain, combining data-driven development of brain theory with the bottom-up approach of directly simulated structured networks, and the top down approach, mapping functional models of higher brain function to spiking dynamics.
Focus
Computational Neurophysics
Group leader:
Prof. Dr. Markus Diesmann
The focus of this group are bottom-up approaches in order to integrate physiological and anatomical data into models, in particular model development, theory of neuronal networks, and correlation dynamics. This also requires the development of simulation technology for neural networks.
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Statistical Neuroscience
Group Leader:
Prof. Dr. Sonja Grün
Development and application of methods to analyse multi-channel activity data in close contact to experimental groups. A focus is the connection between neural data recorded on different temporal and spatial scales and on the structure of correlations of spiking activity.
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Computation in Neural Circuits
Group leader:
Prof. Dr. Abigail Morrison
Investigation of mechanisms underlying neural computation through the development of models on the level of networks of spiking neurons. This group applies a predominantly top-down approach to discover functional constraints on structure, plasticity and dynamics, particularly with respect to learning and memory. Secondary focus on simulation technology for high-performance computers.
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Theory of Multi-Scale Neuronal Networks
Group leader:
Prof. Dr. Moritz Helias
The focus of this group is the investigation of mechanisms shaping the correlated and oscillatory activity in neuronal networks with structured connectivity on several spatial scales. This requires the development of quantitative theoretical descriptions, adapted from statistical physics, combined with direct simulations of neuronal networks at cellular resolution.
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Theoretical Neuroanatomy
Group leader:
Prof. Dr. Sacha van Albada
The focus of this work group is on the collation and analysis of microscopic and macroscopic anatomical data, informing large-scale dynamical models of the mammalian brain at cellular and synaptic resolution that are simulated using supercomputers. Comparison of the model dynamics with experimentally measured activity further constrains the inferred connectivity.
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Bernstein Coordination Site
Group leader:
Dr. Alexandra Stein
The Bernstein Coordination Site (BCOS) is the national and international representation of the Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience. BCOS serves as a connecting link to funding agencies, industrial partners and the political institutions. It facilitates scientific encounter and supports Bernstein scientists in their joint activities and networking.
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