SFN 2010 poster

how qualitative mental states can be encoded in quantitative data parameters

meaning

fundamental computational elements of local microcircuits, network motifs

the neural coding of semantic knowledge / semantic memory

exploring the differerent classes of neural network models and other models of computation that have been imagined

interoperability in the brain; how is data shared between different "thought modules"? how is data routed through the neural network?

Thalamus, basal ganglia, and neocortex. I’m interested in understanding the "basic plan" of these structures, at the microstructure/local circuit level, across placental mammals; I’m also interested in theoretical models of their operation and function.

Neural coding

Neuronal cell culture as an experimental preparation for studying network activity and local circuit computation. Yes it’s unnatural, but it’s the only prep we’ve got where we have a shadow of a chance of simultaineously monitoring the activity of ALL of the cells involved in a particular computation (at least for the next couple of years). I’m also interested in the experimental techniques necessary for doing these sorts of experiments (for example, all-optical electrophysiology, multi-electrode arrays).

Central pattern generators. Particularly small ones in invertebrates. These serve as a tractable system for cataloging part of the fundamental reportoire of neural computational architectures.

Song memory in the Zebra Finch: In this system, we have a real chance to discover exactly how the song is encoded in memory. And, we can do this by going backwards from the motor outputs, without having to worry about other parts of the system (for instance, audition) (if we were trying to figure out how the song is learned, we’d have to care about this other stuff; but determining the format of the storage of the memory should be easier).

Multi-electrode arrays: seem to be the best way right now to simultaineously record or stimulate a number of neurons

All-optical electrophysiology techniques: over the course of decades, I agree with Eric that optical methods will displace MEAs. </ul>

Co-host and major contributor to the Neurodudes web log

Co-founder and major contributor to NeuroWiki (defunct)

some stuff i did during my rotations: /work/rotationsEtc.html

What is the function of the reciprocal signal from cerebral cortex to thalamus? — an underappreciated open question in the systems neuroscience of the cerebral cortex

arc computation

short list of ideas for a programming language that works like the brain

Introduction to Reverse Engineering the Brain — (incomplete) list of the subset of topics of systems neuroscience that are most relevant to the topic "What is the algorithm of thought?" (e.g. so that you can focus/prioritize your study of neuroscience if this question is your goal)

/notes-science-neuro (beware: these notes were written for personal use; they are not necessarily readable)

develop the theory of arc computation

How do humans hold inconsistent beliefs? How do humans do what A.I. calls "commonsense reasoning"? This is related to paraconsistent logics, confabulation after brain injury, and to conspiracy theories.