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Our research

We explore how the brain operates—studying cells, circuits and behavior

We combine neurobiology and nano-scale engineering to develop new tools that help us monitor and manipulate brain circuits with high spatial and temporal resolution. We are pioneers in large-scale recording and imaging techniques, like Neuropixels recordings, and optical and functional ultrasound imaging, and we develop and apply machine learning methods for neural data analysis and the design and analysis of theoretical models of neural systems.

Our work provides insights into the mechanistic foundation of nervous system function and behavior and paves the way to better diagnostics and treatments of central nervous system disorders. 

Neuronal circuits and cellular diversity

Neuronal circuits are the brain’s building blocks, consisting of a dense wiring of exquisite precision, tightly interacting with brain glial cells and with the cerebrovascular network. Our research explores neuronal circuits in health and disease.

Innovative technologies

From novel imaging methods, to recording devices and behavioral assays, we apply our multidisciplinary expertise as biologists, engineers, physicists and bioinformaticians to overcome the technical barriers we face.

From sensation to action

We see, we hear, we feel… Almost effortlessly, we make sense of the world around us. We want to understand how neuronal circuits integrate sensory information and transform it into action.

NERF labs

Vincent Bonin

Bonin lab

From vision to action
Vincent Bonin

Karl Farrow

Farrow lab

Understanding sensory information processing
Karl Farrow

Pedro Goncalves

Gonçalves lab

Computational neuroscience and machine learning
Pedro Gonçalves

Sebastian Haesler

Haesler lab

Novelty, exploration and curiosity
Sebastian Haesler

Aya Takeoka

Takeoka lab

Motor control by sensory feedback
Aya Takeoka

Alan Urban

Urban lab

Functional ultrasound imaging: an innovative technology to image brain activity
Alan Urban

Fabian Kloosterman

ALUMNI - Kloosterman lab

Memory processing and spacial navigation
Fabian Kloosterman

Infrastructure

The NERF laboratories span approximately 1000 square meters. We have access to central animal housing and animal care services for rats and mice, supported by KU Leuven. For histology, a shared facility accompanied by a core confocal microscope is available.

The labs have established state-of-the-art behavioural neurophysiology and two-photon imaging systems for studying neural circuits in various animal models. A viral vector facility for production of adeno-associated viral vectors and rabies vectors and a molecular biology lab enable researchers to use cutting edge genetic tools.