About NERF
Combining systems neuroscience and neuroengineering for understanding and restoring nervous system function
Our mission is to create, establish and deploy new experimental approaches to reveal anatomical and functional principles of neuronal circuit function, and new technologies for monitoring and manipulating the nervous system.
We carry out our mission through the synergistic combination of systems neuroscience, molecular approaches and neuroengineering.
Our work provides new insights into the mechanistic foundation of brain function and behavior and paves the way to new diagnostics and treatments for disorders of the central nervous system.
Empowered by three world-class institutes
NERF is an interdisciplinary research center, founded by three world-class institutes: nanoelectronics and digital technology developer imec, the life-sciences institute VIB, and KU Leuven, the University of Leuven. We receive structural funding from the Flemish government.
Managed by neuroscience experts
Daily management is in the hands of the NERF Management Committee composed of our group leaders. An Inter-Institutional Board supports the development of NERF and its integration with the founding institutions.
The scientific progress, quality and strategy are evaluated by a Scientific Advisory Board, composed of six internationally acclaimed neuroscientists.
Management committee
Our group leaders are responsible for the scientific, logistic, administrative, personnel and financial management of NERF, including the central NERF facilities.
On a rotating basis, one of the group leaders will take on the role of the spokesperson or director, representing NERF within the three founding institutions and at the inter-institutional board meetings. Since January 2015, Sebastian Haesler serves as NERF director.
Inter-institutional board
The Inter-Institutional Board lays out the strategic vision for NERF, oversees its implementation and monitors progress. It is composed of six representatives from the three founding institute, and the NERF director, who represents the management committee.
- Jérôme Van Biervliet
- Peter Peumans
- Ludo Deferm
- Paul Van Dun
- Chris Van Geet
- Geert Van Minnebruggen
Our scientific advisory board
