Neuroscience research at NYU includes work at the genetic, molecular, cellular, developmental, systems, cognitive, behavioral, and computational levels. The breadth and depth of our training program arises from two cooperative centers: the Center for Neural Science (CNS) located at the Washington Square campus and the Department of Neuroscience found at the Grossman School of Medicine. Please see below for more information on our faculty working in each field, highlighting the core members of our program.
Cell Signaling
Researchers at NYU use cutting edge techniques, including electrophysiology, fluorescence microscopy and transgenic models, to study the electrical and intracellular signaling properties of both neurons and glia.
Learning & Memory
Neuroplasticity can account for much of learning, and memory. Neuroscientists at NYU are studying how we learn and remember information over time using a myriad of approaches, including electrophysiology, imaging, and genetic sequencing and manipulations.
Sensation & Perception
Neuroscientists across NYU are working to understand the processes of sensing, interpreting, and acting on stimuli in the environment. Using cutting-edge techniques and novel tools, our scientists ask how we decode odors, maintain balance, perceive texture and faces, and learn vocalizations.
Motivation, Emotion & Behavioral States
Emotions are complex physiological and psychological states that drive many of our actions and behaviors. Researchers at NYU investigate how emotions arise and impact behavior using many different approaches, including genetic engineering, tracing, and functional magnetic resonance imaging techniques.
Development & Genetics
Neuroscientists at NYU use integrative approaches, including DNA and RNA sequencing and computational modeling, to better understand the structure and function of genes and developmental processes, in both health and disease, and across the lifespan.
Motor Processing
Motor processing encompasses the neural mechanisms by which the central nervous system plans, executes, and refines voluntary and involuntary physical movements. Researchers in our department investigate how complex motor commands are generated, transformed into precise muscle actions, and adapted through motor learning.
Computation & Theory
Computational modelling can help us to understand and make predictions about molecules cells, circuits, systems,cognition, and behavior. Our computational neuroscientists often work in parallel with experimentalists to refine their models and make testable predictions about how the brain works.
Cognition & Executive Function
The brain gives rise to our thoughts, decisions, and sense of self. At levels of analysis ranging from molecules to humans, researchers at NYU reveal the neural substrates that underlie higher order mental processes such a consciousness, judgement, decision making, attention, working memory, inhibitory control, and cognitive flexibility.
Disorders
Researchers at NYU are investigating the mechanisms leading to, and developing animal models for disorders of the nervous system, including neurodegenerative, neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders.