School of Psychology & Neuroscience

Our Research Themes

Somatosensation & Pain

We focus on the structure and function of the somatosensory system. Our research helps define synaptic, cellular, and circuit mechanisms that underpin normal sensory processing, and determine how these properties change in pathological conditions leading to chronic pains and itch.

Lead: Junichi Hachisuka

Perception, Attention & Awareness

We study how the brain transforms visual inputs into perception, memory, and action using behavioural, neural, comparative and computational methods. Our research spans spatial cognition, memory, face perception, reading, and Artificial Intelligence, to link visual processing to contextual behaviour.

Lead: Lars Muckli

Learning, Memory & Plasticity

Integrating across rodents and humans, our research uncovers how memory supports learning, prediction, simulation, and decision making. We study these processes from neurons and synapses to brain-wide circuits and behaviour, using electrophysiological, brain imaging and cognitive tools.

Lead Maria Wimber

Cognition & Action

This research investigates the mechanisms and dynamics of high-level mental processes such as language, decision-making, and reasoning. It also examines the neural underpinnings of sensorimotor circuits that generate and regulate purposeful, adaptive behaviour.

Lead: Marios Philiastides

Social Communication & Interaction

We undertake computational modeling of human social interaction, combining psychology, linguistics, and AI. By developing technologies, we study multimodal social signals, cognition, and perception, advancing both fundamental research and real-world AI applications.

Lead: Lisa DeBruine

Mind & Brain Health

Fundamental and translational research focused on understanding brain health and disease from molecules, cells, synapses, circuits, affect, and behaviour. Our research spans neurological and psychiatric disorders, and healthy behaviour, using neuroimaging, neurobiological and psychological methods.

Lead: Michele Svanera