Alphabetical List

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Prof. Dr. Adriano Aguzzi
Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Zurich
adriano.aguzzi@usz.ch

Research focus:  We have devoted the past 20 years to studying the immunological and molecular basis of prion pathogenesis. Currently, the primary focus of the lab lies on elucidating mechanisms underlying a) replication of prions and prion-like proteins such as alpha-synuclein and b) neurotoxicity in prion diseases. We approach these objectives from different directions. On one hand, we have established highly automated platforms for cell-based assays in order to screen for genes that are important for either prion replication or toxicity. On the other hand, we use a variety of model systems for genetic and infectious prion disease including cell culture models such as human IPS-cell derived neurons, ex vivo brain slice cultures and various transgenic and knockout mouse models in order to investigate molecular pathways underlying prion toxicity and pathogenesis.

Keywords: Neurodegeneration, neurotoxicity, prion disease, organotypic brain slice cultures, generation of transgenic and knock-out mouse models, high-throughput screenings
TopicDisorders of the Nervous System
Publications: zora Google Scholar
Website:http://www.en.neuropathologie.usz.ch/
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PD Dr. Irmgard Amrein
Division of Functional Neuroanatomy, Institute of Anatomy, University of Zurich
irmgard.amrein@anatomy.uzh.ch

Research focus: We investigate eco-evolutionary adaptations in the structure of the mammalian hippocampus – How do structural specializations relate to the evolutionary history of animals? How do structural specializations translate into behaviors that allow the animals to successfully compete in their ecological niches? We perform comparative quantitative analysis of functionally defined neuron populations that also includes neurons that are born in adult animals. Most of the animals we study are wild-living species that show unique environmental adaptations. We have been able to define anatomical patterns that characterize taxonomic groups, and within these groups, habitat requirements that can shape quantitative relations between hippocampal cell populations - revealing surprising features that only nature is able to create.

Keywords: hippocampus, behavior, adaptation, phylogeny, stereology, immunohistochemistry, neurogenesis
Topic: Neural Basis of Behavior
Publications: PubMed
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Prof. Dr. Rava Azeredo Da Silveira
Department of Economics, University of Zurich
rava@alum.mit.edu

Research focus: Rava Azeredo da Silveira’s lab focuses on a range of topics in theoretical and computational neuroscience and cognitive science. These topics, however, are tied together through a central question: How does the brain represent and manipulate information?
Among the more concrete approaches to this question, the lab analyses and models neural activity in circuits that can be identified, recorded from, and perturbed experimentally, such as visual neural circuits in the retina and the cortex. Establishing links between physiological specificity and the structure of neural activity yields an understanding of circuits as building blocks of cerebral information processing. On a more abstract level, the lab investigates the representation of information in populations of neurons, from a statistical and algorithmic-rather than mechanistic-point of view, through theories of coding and data analyses.
In the context of cognitive studies, the lab investigates mental processes such as inference, learning, and decision-making, through both theoretical developments and behavioral experiments. A particular focus is the study of neural constraints and limitations and, further, their impact on mental processes. Neural limitations impinge on the structure and variability of mental representations, which in turn inform the cognitive algorithms that produce behavior. The lab explores the nature of neural limitations, mental representations, and cognitive algorithms, and their interrelations. Whereas most of the lab’s projects are theoretical and computational, some projects involve designing and conducting behavioral experiments in humans.

Topic: Computation and Modeling, Cognitive Neuroscience
Website: https://www.silveira-lab.com 
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Prof. Dr. med. Ruxandra Bachmann-Gagescu
Institute of Medical Genetics, University of Zurich
ruxandra.bachmann@imls.uzh.ch

Research focus: Our research focuses on a group of human Mendelian disorders called ciliopathies which are unified by shared genetic causes resulting in primary cilium dysfunction. Primary cilia are small non-motile organelles present on the surface of most vertebrate cells where they are involved in transduction of sensory, mechanical or chemical signals and in regulation of signaling pathways during development and cell homeostasis. Typical clinical presentations of ciliopathies include neurological involvement, retinal degeneration and renal fibrocystic disease, as illustrated by Joubert syndrome (JS), an iconic ciliopathy which is the main focus of our research. To understand the consequences of mutations in JS-associated genes at the molecular level, we combine observations from human genetics studies on JS-patients with modelling in the zebrafish and in human iPSC-derived neurons using state-of-the-art techniques such as CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing or live imaging of transgenically-tagged ciliary proteins.

Keywords: ciliopathies, primary cilia, Joubert syndrome, zebrafish, iPSC
Topics: Development and Regeneration, Disorders of the nervous system
Website: http://www.medgen.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. Bettina Balint, Junior Group Leader
Department of Neurology, University Hospital Zurich
bettina.balint@usz.ch

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Prof. Dr. Christian Baumann
Department of Neurology, University Hospital Zurich
christian.baumann@usz.ch

Topic: Sleep and Sleep Disorders
Website: https://www.usz.ch/team/christian-baumann
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Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Burkhard Becher
Institute of experimental Immunology, University of Zurich
becher@immunology.uzh.ch

Research focus: Neuro- and Tumorimmunology
Our research aims to understand the development of tissue-specific autoimmunity in particular in the context of interactions of the nervous system with the immune system. Our main research interests can be categorized as such:

• Cytokine networks in autoimmune inflammatory disease with a focus on in vivo modeling of multiple sclerosis, psoriasis, graft-versus host disease
• Immune tolerance and lymphoid development
• Tumorimmunology: specifically the interaction of immune cells with cancer cells and therapeutic interventions to mount immune responses against tumors

Keywords: Transgenic mice, cytokines, immunity
Topic: Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications: PubMed
Website: http://www.immunology.uzh.ch/
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Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Elvir Becirovic
Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich
elvir.becirovic@usz.ch

Research focus: Millions of people worldwide suffer from various forms of retinal diseases that can lead to total blindness. Especially for the inherited forms of retinal diseases, there is an unmet medical need for the development of new molecular genetic diagnostic and therapeutic methods. My group works at the interface between basic research and therapy of inherited retinal diseases (IRDs). In this context we pursue several goals:

• Analysis of the pathophysiology of IRDs in mouse models.
• Development of new molecular diagnostic methods using genome editing
• Analysis of mutations in genes associated with IRDs
• Production, further development and application of adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors, the gold standard vectors in gene therapy
• Gene therapies in mouse models of IRDs and in human retinal organoids
• Establishment of new or optimization of existing (gene)therapeutic approaches with a special focus on CRISPR-Cas-mediated (epi)genome editing
• Implementation of own (gene)therapeutic approaches and technologies in clinical trials in cooperation with industry.

Keywords: gene therapy, retina, inherited retinal diseases, gene editing, epigenome editing, AAV vectors, molecular diagnosis, retinal organoids, CRISPR-Cas, CRISPRa, IRDs
Topic: Disorders of the Nervous System, Sensory Systems
Website: https://www.usz.ch/team/elvir-becirovic
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Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Berger
Institute of Medical Molecular Genetics, University of Zurich 
berger@medmolgen.uzh.ch

Research focus: Our research activities are focussing on genetic diseases of the retina. We have identified a number of genes and mutations involved in Mendelian traits. High throughput sequencing technologies (NGS) are used to identify additional mutations and novel genes. Mouse models are being used to study the pathophysiology of monogenic human diseases as a prerequisite to implement therapeutic approaches. Additional areas of research include angiogenic processes in the retina and brain, pre mRNA splicing as well as gene-therapeutic approaches for treatment of retinal degenerations.

Keywords: Eye diseases, genetic associations, therapeutic intervention, retinal development and diseases
Topic: Sensory Systems
Publications: https://www.medmolgen.uzh.ch/de/publications.html
Website: https://www.medmolgen.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. Johannes Bohacek
Lab of Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience, Institute for Neuroscience, ETH Zurich
johannes.bohacek@hest.ethz.ch

Research focus: Exposure to stressful experiences is one of the major risk factors for developing mood and anxiety disorders. My group uses mice to study the organism-wide consequences of stress in a complex mammalian system, with a focus on the locus coeruleus – noradrenaline system. In our innovative research program we combine modern multi-omic techniques (from single-cell sequencing to epigenomic screens) with circuit-neuroscience tools (e.g. optogenetics, photometry) to dissect the mechanisms that distinguish healthy stress coping from maladaptive stress-related disease. Because stress is a whole-organism response, in which the central nervous system tightly regulates energy homeostasis across the body, our work spans three major levels of analysis, from single cells to brain circuits and ultimately to behavior.

Keywords: stress, anxiety, transcriptome, hippocampus, epigenetic inheritance, epigenetics
Topics: Neural Basis of Behavior, Disorders of the Nervous System, Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience
Publications: PubMed     
Website:  http://www.bohaceklab.ethz.ch
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PD Dr. Marc Bolliger
University Hospital Balgrist, Spinal Cord Injury Center
marc.bolliger@balgrist.ch

Research focus: Regaining locomotor function after spinal cord injury (SCI) is one of the priorities for the affected persons. The focus of our group lies on the development of new technologies to enhance the therapy outcome after SCI. In addition, we establish detailed motion capture analysis in our patients to better understand mechanism of improvements. Our interdisciplinary team consists of movement scientists, biologists, engineers and therapists and is closely connected to the clinic of the Spinal Cord Injury Center Balgrist.

Keywords: Spinal cord injury, rehabilitation robotics, locomotion, movement analysis, outcome measures, intervention.
Topics: Motor Systems, Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications: PubMed
Website: https://www.sci-research.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. Daniel Brandeis
Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Zurich, University of Zurich
brandeis@kjpd.uzh.ch

Research focus: We focus on mapping brain functions and plasticity in typical development, neurodevelopmental disorders, and treatment with electrical and multimodal imaging (EEG-fMRI, MRS, with S. Brem). Clinical projects cover longitudinal brain mapping in common neurodevelopmental disorders like Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), aggression and Dyslexia. We characterize timing, localization and genetics (with E.  Grünblatt) of compromised networks as endophenotypes as state dependent deficits during rest, attention, inhibition, reward processing, or print tuning etc.  For clinical translation we focus on neurofeedback and biofeedback training (with R. Drechsler), and evaluate potential biomarkers using multimodal approaches.

Keywords: ADHD, dyslexia, OCD, conduct disorder, development, plasticity, functional brain mapping, EEG, ERP, fMRI, MRS,  neurofeedback, biofeedback, longitudinal studies, reading, attention, genetics, gene x environment interactions.
Topics: Disorders of the Nervous System, Development and Regeneration, Cognitive Neuroscience, Biomedical Technology and Imaging
Publications: PubMed
Website: http://www.kjpd.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. sc. nat. Silvia Brem
University Clinic for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (UCCAP), University of Zürich
silvia.brem@kjpd.uzh.ch

Research focus: Current research interests are the use of multimodal imaging techniques (EEG, MRI) to examine i) typical and atypical reading development (developmental dyslexia), ii) prediction and intervention in dyslexia and iii) dysfunctional brain networks in child psychiatric populations such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and juvenile obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).

Keywords: EEG, MRI, simultaneous EEG-fMRI, reading, developmental dyslexia, ADHD, OCD
Topics: Cognitive Neuroscience, Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications: PubMed
Website: https://www.kjpd.uzh.ch

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Prof. Dr. Denis Burdakov
ETH Zurich, Department of Health Sciences and Technology (D-HEST)
denis.burdakov@hest.ethz.ch

Research focus: Neural algorithms and behaviour
How does the brain solve complex problems? The Burdakov lab studies brain computations that convert sensory context into appropriate actions, appetites, and arousal. Our experiments focus on specific genetically-defined brain cells, but our questions are more general, overlapping with fields such as robotics (what control algorithms are best for performance in an uncertain world? what are their strengths and weaknesses?).  To answer such questions, the lab studies how information is represented by specific neural clusters to sway decisions.
This is achieved by tracking real-time brain network dynamics (using in vivo genetically-targete­­d calcium reporters, electrophysiology) associated with quantified voluntary actions, while manipulating sensory contexts (internal and external body state) and genetically- and temporally-defined elements of neural computations (using optogenetics, chemogenetics). These sensorimotor measurements are interpreted with the help of computational simulations that formally assess the performance of particular sensorimotor algorithms in defined tasks.  By elucidating what different parts of the brain do, how they do it, and what makes them perform well or badly, this work provides fundamental information that can be used for designing better medical treatments for brain disorders.

Topics: Neural basis of behaviour, computation and modelling, molecular and cellular neuroscience, disorders of the nervous systems
Publications: PubMed
Website: https://www.hest.ethz.ch/
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Prof. Dr. Judith Burkart
Department of Anthropology, Evolutionary Cognition Group, University of Zurich
judith.burkart@aim.uzh.ch

Research focus: The Evolutionary Cognition Group studies human and nonhuman primates to better understand the evolutionary origin of humans’ social, motivational and cognitive processes. A particular focus is on cooperative breeding (i.e. the reproductive system where group members other than the parents significantly contribute to infant rearing) which convergently evolved in humans and marmoset monkeys. We noninvasively study marmoset monkeys in captivity and in the wild using a diverse set of approaches, including cognitive tests batteries, behavioral experiments probing their prosociality and other psychological traits, observational studies, automated behavioral monitoring, acoustic analyses, endocrinology, and thermography as noninvasive measure of emotional arousal.

Keywords: comparative psychology, endocrinology, thermography, automated behavioral and acoustic monitoring, vocal communication
Topics: Cognitive neuroscience, development and regeneration
Publications: Google Scholar
Website: https://www.aim.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. Isaac Canals
University Children’s Hospital and Children’s Research Center Zurich, University of Zurichisaac.canals@uzh.ch

Research focus: Our research aims to investigate the role of different glial cells, especially astrocytes, in health and disease, as well as their relation and regulation of neurons at the synaptic and neuronal network levels. We use human induced pluripotent stem cell models to elucidate the disease mechanisms in neurodegenerative lysosomal storage disorders at the neuronal and glial levels and to develop novel genome editing-based therapeutic strategies. For that, we independently generate excitatory and inhibitory neurons, astrocytes, and microglia from induced pluripotent stem cells, and we later coculture them in different healthy-disease combinations to examine the role of each cell type in the disease. Additionally, we use brain organoids to understand the role of brain developmental alterations caused by impaired metabolism of specific macromolecules in these disorders. Finally, we will test the potential of genome editing as a therapeutic approach for treating these severe childhood diseases.

Keywords: iPSCs, genome editing, brain organoids, lysosomal storage disorders
Topics: Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience, Disorders of the Nervous System
Webiste: https://www.kispi.uzh.ch/node/2744
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PD Dr. sc. ETH Markus Christen
Institute of Biomedical Ethics and History of Medicine & UZH Digital Society Initiative, University of Zurich
christen@ethik.uzh.ch

Research focus: The Neuro-Ethics-Technology research group of the Institute of Biomedical Ethics and History of Medicine investigates research topics at the interfaces of ethics, neuroscience/-psychology and information technology. We use both empirical and normative methodologies in currently nine different research projects. Those research fields are: research on moral intelligence components, family life, health & moral development, brain death and transplantation, serious moral games, ethics of neuromodulation, moral decision making and autonomous systems, Big data ethics, visualizing morally loaded data, cybersecurity and ethics.

Keywords: neuroethics; deep brain stimulation; brain death; big data ethics; moral psychology; ethics of information technology
Topics: Biomedical Technology; Cognitive Neuroscience; Motor Systems
Publications: https://www.encyclog.com
Website: https://www.ibme.uzh.ch/
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Dr. Matthew Cook
Institute of Neuroinformatics, University and ETH Zurich
cook@ini.uzh.ch

Topic: Computation and Modeling
Website: http://co2.ini.uzh.ch/Home/index.php
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Prof. Dr. Emily S. Cross
Department of Humanities, Social and Political Sciences
Emily.Cross@gess.ethz.ch

Research focus: The ‘Social Brain Sciences’ group conducts research at the intersection of human neuroscience, the arts, and social robotics. We examine how our prior experiences, expectations and learning (embodied or otherwise) shape how we see the agents we encounter in a social world. We explore theories from psychology, empirical aesthetics, cognitive science, and human—technology interaction using research tools ranging from brain scanners (fMRI and fNIRS) and eye trackers to computer animation and robots. As such, our research activities are resolutely interdisciplinary and we welcome students, trainee researchers, and collaborators from a wide range of backgrounds to join our team.

Keywords: social neuroscience, human—robot interaction, neuroaesthetics, synchrony, neurotechnology, expertise, dance
Topics: Neural Basis of Behaviour, Cognitive Neuroscience
Publications: Google Scholar
Website: https://sbs.ethz.ch/___________________________________________________________________________________________

Prof. Dr. phil. Moritz M. Daum
Department of Psychology, Developmental Psychology: Infancy and Childhood, University of Zurich
daum@psychologie.uzh.ch

Research focus: The overarching aim of the Research Group “Developmental Psychology” is to address the roots of infants’ and young children’s perception and understanding of their social world. The understanding of others as social agents is one of the most fundamental skills in our everyday social life. It is crucial for any engagement in cooperative and communicative activities. In our research, we are particularly interested in the mechanisms that form the bedrock of infants’ action perception, the interrelation of infants’ early action perception comprehension to the control of their own actions, the selective implementation of observed actions in one’s own actions.
Current projects focus on the (neuro-)cognitive processes underlying infants’ and young children’s action understanding, the interrelation of action understanding and action performance across the whole lifespan, the interrelation of language and action in development, and the development of the self.

Keywords: developmental psychology, infancy, life span, cognitive development, action perception language, imitation, eye tracking, EEG
Topics: Development and Regeneration, Neural Basis of Behavior, Cognitive Neuroscience
Publications: PubMed
Website: http://www.psychologie.uzh.ch
Lab: http://www.kleineweltentdecker.ch
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Prof. Tobi Delbruck
Institute of Neuroinformatics, University and ETH Zurich
tobi@ini.uzh.ch

Research focus: The sensors group at INI led by myself and PD Dr. Shih-Chii Liu develops neuromorphic silicon vison and audio sensors and methods for processing their output. These sensors and processing methods are inspired by the organizing principle of the nervous system. For instance, the brain uses spikes to transmit analog signals over long distances without losing precision by using interspike time intervals and spike coincidence to encode analog information. One of the main sensors is the dynamic vision sensor (DVS). The DVS encodes visual information by transmitting spikes in response to log intensity changes. This way, the sensor achieves very high dynamic range and can help beat the classical latency-power tradeoff suffered by conventional image sensors. We also develop many robots to demonstrate the advantages of the neuromorphic approach.

Keywords: neuromorphic, sensor, vision, eye, retina, cochlea
Topics: Sensory Systems, Computation and Modeling
Publications: http://sensors.ini.uzh.ch
Website: https://www.ini.uzh.ch
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Dr. Chiara De Luca, Junior Group Leader
Institute of Neuroinformatics, ETH Zurich and  University of Zurich
chiaradeluca@iniuzh.ch

Research focus: Our brain is an amazing low-power, always-on machine with a remarkable ability to integrate and segregate signals across various timescales robustly. My research focuses on understanding these mechanisms and leveraging them to build and exploit bio-inspired neuromorphic systems for processing and combining real-world signals, addressing practical challenges through edge devices.
I hold a degree in Theoretical Physics from La Sapienza University in Rome, where I specialized in Complex Systems Dynamics. I work on exploiting low-power mixed-signal neuromorphic chips for always-on edge systems. Currently, I am part of the Digital Society Initiative (DSI) at the University of Zurich, focusing on applying neuromorphic technologies in precision farming to enhance and optimize agriculture and plant monitoring.
Within the scope of my DSI Bridge Postdoc Fellowship, I am conducting my research project «Neuromorphic technologies for precision farming». The tremendous success of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is providing important solutions to societal challenges in multiple domains. However, modern agricultural production relies on monitoring the status of the environment by observing and measuring variables continuously over extended periods of time, often in remote locations. In this respect, conventional AI approaches are not always ideal, as they have high energy costs and often require access to the network, in order to operate. Neuromorphic hardware offers a promising solution to this challenge, as it enables power-efficient always-on sensing and computing, using local stand-alone sensory-processing systems that do not need to transmit high amounts of data to the cloud. In this project, we propose to integrate neuromorphic computing technology into precision
farming. Ultra-low-power mixed-signal VLSI neuromorphic devices will be employed for on-sensor signal processing, enabling local operations such as noise filtering, trend measurement, event  detection, and multi-modal classification. The aim is to  reduce the data that needs to be transmitted to the central computing unit, and open opportunities for new precision farming strategies and applications that are currently not realizable with conventional AI technologies.

Topic: Computation and Modeling
Publications: PubMed
Website: https://www.ini.uzh.ch
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Dr. Elisa Donati, Junior Group Leader
Institute of Neuroinformatics, ETH Zurich and  University of Zurich
elisa@ini.uzh.ch

Research focus: My research activities are at the interface of neuroscience and neuromorphic engineering. My main goal is to understand how to develop event-based systems able to interface with humans to process in real-time physiological data as inputs. In particular, I am focusing on biomedical applications where the device should be implanted to restore missing biological functions, (e.g., adaptive pacemakers, biomedical devices for neuroprosthetics).
In addition, I am exploring the peripherical nervous system to understand how to apply physiological models to robotic control, to build a fully event-based pipeline.

Keywords: Neuromorphic, biomedical application, biomedical signal processing, electronic circuits, robotics
Topic: Computation and Modeling and Motor Systems
Publications: Google Scholar
Website: https://www.ini.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. Ulrike Ehlert
Department of Psychology, University of Zurich
u.ehlert@psychologie.uzh.ch

Topic: Neuroimmunology, Endocrine and Autonomic Regulation
Website: https://www.psychologie.uzh.ch
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Dr. Mohamad El Amki, Junior Group Leader
Department of Neurology, University Hospital and University of Zurich
Mohamad.elamki@usz.ch

Research focus: Our goal is to understand how blood flow dynamics are regulated in the complex of the brain vascular network in health and disease.
A human brain is powered by ~650km of blood vessels which are compartmentalized into arteries, capillaries, and veins. This immensely complex network can easily fail during disease such as stroke and Alzheimer’s disease. In our projects, we focus on the regulation of blood flow through brain capillaries. Furthermore, we maintain an ongoing effort to develop novel in vitro and in vivo tools to study how to resolve obstructions in large vessels as well as in the microvasculature. We strive to find novel approaches to improve macro and microvascular function in order to keep the brain’s circulatory system functional.

Keywords: Cerebral blood flow, Capillary flow, Microvascular failure, Stroke, No-reflow
Topics: Biomedical Technology and Imaging, Disorders of the Nervous System,
Publications: PubMed
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PD Dr. med. Jorn Fierstra
Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Zurich
jorn.fierstra@usz.ch

Research focus: My research team has developed a pioneering application of blood oxygenation-level dependent (BOLD) MRI using precise vasoactive respiratory challenges in order to interrogate brain blood flow control in patients with cerebrovascular ischemic disease and malignant cerebral glioma.
Since 2013, my team has built up a highly interdisciplinary international network, with special focus on cerebrovascular reactivity measurements to determine hemodynamic failure in ischemic stroke patients and to study novel concepts, such as hemodynamic brain tissue responses in chronic ischemia and stroke epiphenomena (e.g. diaschisis). In addition, for malignant cerebral glioma we are currently developing an additional BOLD contrast technique based on hypoxic tissue reactivity in order to investigate respective tissue responses of (peri-)lesional malignant cerebral glioma.
The main goal is to provide new insights in the current pathophysiological concepts of blood flow control in patients with ischemic stroke and malignant cerebral glioma, thereby aiming for clinical integration of this novel advanced BOLD MRI technique for improved therapy evaluation and efficacy.

Keywords: Advanced Neuroimaging, BOLD MRI, Cerebrovascular Reactivity, Cerebral Blood Flow, Cerebrovascular Autoregulation, Stroke, Cerebral Glioma,
Topics: Biomedical Technology and Imaging; Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications: Pubmed
Website: www.neurochirurgie.usz.ch  www.astranlab.com
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PD Dr. sc. Linard Filli
Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich
Linard.Filli@balgrist.ch

Research focus: Accurate movement execution is a result of a complex interplay between various muscle groups whose activity is controlled by different areas of the central nervous system (CNS). We are interested in the neural underpinnings of movement control and the neural mechanisms underlying functional recovery after spinal cord injury (SCI). Besides the corticospinal system, the phylogenetically old reticulospinal system is a key descending motor system controlling different elementary movements including posture, locomotion and reaching across vertebrate species. In contrast to the corticospinal system, there is only sparse knowledge on the role of the reticulospinal system in human motor control. One research area of interest aims at gaining more insights into the contribution of the reticulospinal system to the control of different movements (simple vs. complex, coordinative movements). Additionally, we are interested in the neuroplastic rearrangements of the main descending motor systems (i.e. cortico- and reticulospinal system) and how their neuroplastic re-weighting contributes to functional recovery in subjects with SCI. Enhanced knowledge on the plasticity and regenerative capacity of the key descending motor systems will hopefully translate into effective, future clinical trials that aim at improving motor recovery in patients with CNS injuries.

Keywords: neural control of movements, locomotion, movement analysis, neurophysiology, corticospinal system, reticulospinal system, functional recovery, neuroplasticity, spinal cord injury
Topics: motor systems, disorders of the nervous system
Publications: PubMed
Website:https://www.sci-research.uzh.ch/en.html
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Prof. Dr. Csaba Földy
Brain Research Institute, Laboratory of Neural Connectivity, University of Zurich
foldy@hifo.uzh.ch

Research focus: We are interested in the role of synapses in brain function. Synapses serve as fundamental sites of information transmission between neurons, with different synapses characterized by different qualities of that transmission. Frequently, these qualities are associated with the type of neurons being connected. We reason that if synaptic transmission forms the basis of information processing in the brain, and that synaptic properties can be studied in a cell-type specific manner, we will reach a deeper understanding of the brain’s information processing by performing molecular and computational analyses of synapses, as defined by their connected cell types. In pursuit of this interest, we use electrophysiology, molecular biology, and computational modeling analyses.

Topics: Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience, Computation and Modeling
Website: http://www.hifo.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. med. Dr. rer. nat. Patrick Freund
Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich
patrick.freund@balgrist.ch

Research focus: The focus of previous and current research projects is to better understand how the anatomy and the function of the spinal cord and the brain change in neurological disorders involving the spinal cord. The main goal is to develop neuroimaging biomarkers that are sensitive and accurate in predicting functional outcome in order to register more quickly the impact of therapeutic treatments and rehabilitative interventions. The development and application of high-resolution MR sequences and post-processing imaging pipelines are therefore a major area of our research. Other areas of interest are to explore the mechanisms underlying cortical and spinal plasticity during rehabilitation and to facilitate the translation from experimental animal models of spinal injury to humans.

Keywords: spinal cord injury, neuroimaging, rehabilitation, cortical and spinal plasticity
Topic: Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications: PubMed
Website: http://www.sci-research.uzh.ch___________________________________________________________________________________________

PD Dr. med Marian Galovic
Department of Neurology, University Hospital and University of Zurich
marian.galovic@usz.ch

Research Focus: Epilepsy is one of the commonest chronic neurological disorders. We study the full spectrum of epilepsy and seizure disorders with a focus on clinical and translational aspects. Specifically, we use advanced neuroimaging to characterise the interface between epilepsy and neurodegeneration and whether “seizures damage the brain”. We develop biomarkers of acquired epilepsies, with a particular focus on post-stroke epilepsy. We have expertise in big-data and multicentre collaborations to develop prognostic models and guide therapeutic decision in epilepsy surgery, drug withdrawal, and status epilepticus.

Keywords: epilepsy, seizure, stroke, MRI, imaging
Topic: Disorders of Nervous System
Publications: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=Galovic%2C+Marian%5BAuthor%5D&sort=date
Website: www.neurologie.usz.ch
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Dr. Katharina Gapp
Lab of Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience , Institute for Neuroscience, ETH Zurich
katharina.gapp@hest.ethz.ch

Research focus: Our research evolves around environmentally increased neuropsychiatric disease risk and the associated changes of the epigenome. We study both directly exposed mice and their offspring, which through a mode of DNA-sequence independent inheritance are often affected by parental exposures as well. The mechanism of such non-genetic effects still remains to be elucidated, but undoubtedly involves the germline. The germline is protected, to a large extent, from environmental impacts by the Weissman barrier. However, it also relies on soma-​germline stress hormone signaling for proper germ cell development and function. A lot of recent work, including our own, has shown that chronic environmental challenges, such as dietary changes or chronic stressors, can change the epigenetic makeup of germ cells. However, little is known how an acute somatic signal – like for example the activation of the sympathetic nervous system – can mechanistically break the Weissmann barrier and reach the germline. We use a range of innovative technologies, including in vivo crispR cas9 (gene level), pharmacological small molecules (protein level), siRNA (RNA level) in combination with a variety of bulk, low input and single cell sequencing techniques to manipulate and analyze the epigenome and ultimately understand behaviour, metabolism and disease risk in the model organism mouse.

Keywords: epigenetics, non-coding RNA, non-genetic inheritance
Topic: Disorders of the nervous system, Molecular and cellular Neuroscience
Publications: Google Scholar
Website: https://hest.ethz.ch
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Dr. Sevasti Gaspari
Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Zurich
sevasti.gaspari@pharma.uzh.ch

Research focus: Our efforts focus on unraveling the effect of diabetes on myelin homeostasis and its implication on the pathophysiology of painful diabetic neuropathy.
Diabetes mellitus is a pandemic that has expanded enormously over the past 2 decades. Peripheral diabetic neuropathy is a common, serious, chronic complication of the disease affecting up to 50% of the patients. Among them, 40-50% further develop painful diabetic neuropathy. It is not clear which factors predispose only a subset of patients to the development of neuropathic pain, but clinical studies have identified several risk factors, including female gender, obesity, high alcohol consumption, lower vitamin D levels, and advanced age.
All these factors suppress oligodendrocyte precursor cell (OPC) differentiation and subsequent myelin formation. Furthermore, several of the genes associated with the development of diabetic neuropathy are expressed in oligodendrocytes, with some of them implicated in OPC maturation.
Although peripheral demyelination stands among the well-described processes associated with the pathogenesis of diabetic neuropathy, accumulating evidence suggests that diabetes also affects myelin dynamics in the central nervous system. On the other hand, depletion of mature myelinating oligodendrocytes, per se, triggers pain-like behavior in mice. Interestingly, one of the most widely used drugs for the treatment of type 2 DM, metformin, except from its protective effects on peripheral nerve degeneration, has been shown to promote OPC differentiation and appears to have antinociceptive effects in several rodent pain models.
Considering collectively the above-stated evidence, our main hypothesis is that diabetes causes central demyelination. Consequently, new myelin formation and OPC differentiation/maturation are required for repair. Factors that impede this process predispose a subset of patients to the development of central pain.

Keywords: Diabetes, oligodendrocytes, myelin, pain, mouse models
Topic: Disorders of the nervous system
Publications: Google Scholar
Website: https://www.pharma.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. Roger Gassert
Rehabilitation Engineering Lab, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich 
gassertr@ethz.ch

Research focus: We apply robotics, wearable sensor technology and non-invasive neuroimaging to the exploration, assessment and restoration of sensorimotor function, with the goal of promoting recovery following neurological injury and developing assistive technologies for the compensation of remaining deficits.

Keywords: physical human-machine interaction, rehabilitation robotics, haptics, assistive technology, neural control of movement, neuroimaging, neurofeedback
Topics: Sensory Systems, Motor Systems, Disorders of the Nervous System, Biomedical Technology and Imaging
Publications: Google Scholar
Website: http://www.relab.ethz.ch
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Prof. Dr. Nathalie Giroud
Computational Neuroscience of Speech & Hearing, Department of Computational Linguistics, Phonetics and Speech Sciences, University of Zurich
nathalie.giroud@uzh.ch

Research focus: In our group we investigate mechanisms of language processing in the brain using a variety of neuroimaging techniques (e.g. EEG, MRI) as well as psychophysical and neuropsychological testing. Our research focuses on the neural underpinnings of the highly prevalent age-related hearing loss and speech perception difficulties in older adults. We are working towards understanding its impact on the brain and its relationship with cognitive decline in healthy individuals and in older adults with neuropathology such as Alzheimer’s disease. The long-term goal of our research is to develop rehabilitation strategies for audio(-visual) speech processing difficulties in healthy older adults and individuals with mild cognitive impairment and dementia. Furthermore, we are also interested in understanding the association between hearing loss and brain atrophy, cognitive mechanisms of audiovisual speech processing, as well as bilingualism and foreign language learning in an aging population.

Keywords: hearing loss, aging, dementia, language, speech processing, neural entrainment, EEG, MRI, audiovisual processing, cognition
Topics: Cognitive Neuroscience, Sensory Systems
Publications: Google Scholar
Website: https://www.linguistik.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. Melanie Greter
Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich
greter@immunology.uzh.ch

Research focus: The mononuclear phagocyte system (MPS) is defined as a group of myeloid cells comprised of monocytes, macrophages and dendritic cells. The different members of the MPS display substantial heterogeneity in terms of ontogeny, turnover and functional properties during homeostasis and inflammation. Our goal is to identify key molecules necessary for the development and function of the MPS. We will focus on microglia, a specialized brain-resident macrophage population. We aim to discover new lineage guiding transcription factors involved in microglia regulation. In addition, we will generate new mouse strains in order to specifically target microglia in vivo and to genetically manipulate CNS-invading monocytes during neuroinflammation.

Keywords: Microglia, macrophages, cytokines, development, neuroinflammation
Topic: Neuroimmunology
Publications: PubMed
Website: https://www.immunology.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. Benjamin F. Grewe
Institute of Neuroinformatics, ETH Zurich
bgrewe@ethz.ch

Research focus: My primary research focus is directed towards understanding the basis of information processing and memory formation in neuronal networks using experimental as well as computational approaches. Currently my research at the INI investigates basic concepts of information processing and memory formation in limbic neuronal networks, using miniaturized cutting-edge imaging techniques to record learning induced changes in neuronal network activity of mice. Aligning with the combined strengths of the INI and in collaboration biomedical and electrical engineering groups my long-term vision is to extract fundamental principles of network-learning from real biological networks and then to reverse engineer their functionality as logical, reproducible algorithms that be implemented in software or directly as electrical circuits. I am convinced that reverse-engineering neural learning algorithms that mimic human thinking will one day change the importance of intelligent technologies in our everyday life

Keywords: systems and computational neuroscience, population coding, neuronal network learning, deep learning, spiking network simulations, calcium imaging, two photon microscopy, miniaturized microscope, freely moving, behavior

Topic: neural basis of behavior, computation and modeling, sensory systems
Projects: https://www.ini.uzh.ch
Publications: PubMed
Website: https://www.ini.uzh.ch/en/research/groups/grewe.html
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Prof. Dr. Christian Grimm
Department of Ophthalmology, Lab for Retinal Cell Biology, University Hospital Zurich
cgrimm@opht.uzh.ch

Research focus: Although many patients worldwide suffer from retinal degenerations, there are currently no therapies for the successful treatment of most blinding diseases of the retina. Our work focuses on biochemical events and signaling cascades during retinal degenerations. The goal is to understand the molecular pathways induced by the disease-causing stimuli to develop strategies (neuroprotection, gene therapy) which may ultimately rescue vision in patients.

Current projects focus i) on intercellular signaling with special emphasis on the interaction between photoreceptors and Müller glia cells; ii) on leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) with respect to its potential function as modulator of stem cell-like properties of Müller cells; iii) on the analysis of cone pathophysiology using a newly developed ‘all-cone mouse’; and iv) on acute and chronic hypoxia as potent modulators of photoreceptor survival and degeneration, respectively.

Keywords: Retinal degeneration, hypoxia, leukemia inhibitory factor, retina, blindness, cones, neuroprotection, gene therapy
Topics: Sensory Systems; Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience, Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications: https://www.lrcb.uzh.ch
Website: https://www.lrcb.uzh.ch/en.html
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Prof. Dr. Edna Grünblatt
Translational Molecular Psychiatry, University Clinic of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Zurich
edna.gruenblatt@kjpd.uzh.ch

Research focus: We are interested in finding risk factors and biomarkers for child and adolescent psychiatric disorders such as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), early-onset obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), Autism spectrum disorders (ASD), psychosis and environmental /stress effects. In addition, the laboratory focuses on functional mechanisms of action of gene variants found to associate to a specific disorder as well as mechanism of action of drug therapies in various neuronal cellular models. Since psychiatric disorders are not only polygenetic predisposed but also influenced by environmental factors, epigenetic is another factor investigated in the lab. This could provide additional tools for early and differential diagnosis as well as therapy prediction.

Keywords: ADHD, ASD, biochemistry, child and adolescent psychiatry, epigenetic, genetic, molecular biology, neurodevelopmental disorders, neuronal cellular models, OCD, psychosis, transcriptomics
Topics: Development and Regeneration, Disorders of the Nervous System, Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience
Publications: PubMed
Website:https://www.kjpd.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. Johannes Häberle
Department of Pediatrics, Division of Metabolism, University Children’s Hospital and Children’s Research Center Zurich, Zurich
johannes.haeberle@kispi.uzh.ch

Research Focus: Hyperammonemia is a clinical condition that can be caused by defects (in a primary or secondary way) of the urea cycle, the only pathway in mammalians capable of detoxification of excess nitrogen. Current research projects focus on inherited defects of the urea cycle including novel treatment options, and on several other conditions with hyperammonemia.

Keywords: Hyperammonemia, urea cycle, nitrogen metabolism, brain edema
Topic: Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications: PubMed
Website: http://www.kispi.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. Richard Hahnloser
Institute of Neuroinformatics, ETH Zurich and University of Zurich
rich@ini.ethz.ch

Research Focus: We research sensorimotor and observational learning, birdsong development, neural coding in auditory and motor brain areas, ultrastructure of synaptic networks.  We make use mainly of computational modeling, behavioral methods, electrophysiology, and light- and electron microscopy.

Keywords: imitation behavior, learning
Topics: Computation and Modeling, Neural Basis of Behavior, Motor Systems
Publications: https://www.ini.uzh.ch/publications
Website: https://www.ini.uzh.ch
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Dr. Shuting Han
Brain Research Institute, University of Zurich
han@hifo.uzh.ch

Research Focus: Neurons in our brains are active not only when we do something, but also when we do nothing. But what is the role of such spontaneous activity? Our research focuses on understanding the function of spontaneous activity in the neocortex, particularly with regard to the memory consolidation process, that is, the formation of stable long-term memory. We use a wide range of techniques to study this question in mice, including multi-area two-photon calcium imaging, electrophysiology, machine learning, and rodent behavior. Our research aims at providing fundamental understanding of the neural mechanisms of long-term memory consolidation in the neocortex, as well as understanding how our internal models of the world are represented in the normal and abnormal brain.

Keywords: Spontaneous activity, memory consolidation, internal model, perception, in vivo calcium imaging, neuronal population, machine learning, psychiatric disease
Topics: Sensory Systems, Neural Basis of Behavior
Publications: Google Scholar

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Prof. Dr. Todd Hare
Laboratory for Social and Neural Systems Research, Department of Economics, University of Zürich
todd.hare@uzh.ch

Research Focus: Decision making is central to human behavior and the ability to make good choices is necessary for personal health and optimal social functioning. Our goal is to understand the neural mechanisms of decision making in healthy, typical populations as well as how these processes become dysfunctional in specific behavioral disorders and pathophysiologies.
We examine the neural networks that mediate decision making for various reward types (primary, monetary, social), and have shown that while key areas of the decision network are recruited across choice domains, the regions with which they interact differ between decision contexts. Using a combination of behavioral, neuroimaging, brain stimulation, and computational modeling techniques, current projects focus on the impact of factors such as stress, social feedback, and attention on both self-control and normative decision making.

Keywords: decision making, self-control, strategic choice
Topic: Cognitive Neuroscience
Publications: PubMed
Website: https://www.econ.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. Fritjof Helmchen
Director of the ZNZ
Laboratory of Neural Circuit Dynamics, Brain Research Institute, University of Zurich
helmchen@hifo.uzh.ch

Research focus: Acting in the world means using the power of the neural circuits in your brain. But how do these complex circuits, comprising diverse neuronal and glial cell types interconnected in a highly complicated fashion, actually operate? How do they process sensory stimuli, integrate sensory information with relevant context and past experiences, and how do they produce motor control signals for adequate behavior? Newest technical developments, especially optical methods and genetic tools to record from and manipulate identified neural circuit components, down to individual neurons, now make it possible to tackle these fundamental questions. We develop and apply 2-photon microscopy and fiber-optic tools to gain understanding of the principles of signal flow in local neural circuits as well as the larger networks of brain regions.  In ongoing projects we apply these methods in behaving mice to reveal neural dynamics underlying various behaviors.  

Keywords: Neural networks, in vivo physiology, optical imaging, electrophysiology, goal-directed behavior
Topic: Neural Basis of Behavior
Publications: http://www.hifo.uzh.ch
Website: http://www.hifo.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. Katharina Henke
Department of Psychology and Center for Cognition, Learning and Memory, University of Bern
henke@psy.unibe.ch

Research focus: Our neuroimaging findings suggest that the human hippocampal formation specializes in the rapid establishment of new associations between items in memory. Patient studies revealed that the hippocampal formation is necessary for the rapid encoding and retrieval of new associations even when encoding and retrieval were carried out unconsciously. We found a role of sleep in the consolidation of consciously and unconsciously acquired memories. Even de-novo memory formation during daytime naps appears feasible.  We currently test for a potential advantage of unconscious over conscious information processing in situations where complex information needs to be simultaneously processed and integrated. This research informs models of information processing and models of memory systems at both the neural and mental level.

Keywords: Human memory, unconscious information processing, hippocampus, sleep, neuroimaging
Topic: Cognitive Neuroscience
Publications: https://www.boris.unibe.ch
Website: http://www.apn.psy.unibe.ch
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Dr. med. Marina Herwerth
Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich
Neurology Department, University Hospital Zurich
marina.herwerth@pharma.uzh.ch

Research focus: Autoimmune neuroinflammatory diseases are a group of neurological disorders showing abnormal immune responses resulting in neuroinflammation and CNS tissue damage.
The research aim of our group is to investigate the mechanisms underlying the formation and recovery of neuroinflammatory lesions, using various imaging techniques (e.g. intravital two-photon microscopy) in combination with different genetically encoded fluorescent sensors. Hereby, we explore the glial-neuronal communication and its impact on neurometabolism in neuroinflammatory models.
Our work especially aims to gain deeper insights into the pathophysiology of two neuroinflammatory disorders: Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) and MOG antibody-associated disease (MOGAD). Here, we want to develop new neuroprotective strategies with the goal of further exploration in a clinical setting.

Keywords: Neuroimmunology, glia, astrocyte-neuron-communication, NMOSD, MOGAD
Topic: Neuroimmunology, Disorders of the Nervous System
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Prof. Dr. med. univ. Philipp Homan
Laboratory for Individual Differences in Psychosis, Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich (PUK)
philipp.homan@bli.uzh.ch

Research focus: We study the neurobiological origins and clinical consequences of individual differences in psychotic disorders. Specifically, we are interested in understanding those subgroups of patients who respond unfavorably to standard treatment and for whom alternative treatment options early in their course of illness are warranted. Another subgroup that we are particularly interested in are patients who might benefit from an early dose reduction of antipsychotic treatment after their first episode of psychosis. To this end, we combine randomized clinical trials with multimodal neuroimaging including structural and functional imaging as well as computational modeling to characterize those subgroups and to develop predictive models that will contribute to a more stratified medicine in psychiatry.
Keywords: Psychosis, Stratified Medicine, Neuroimaging, Treatment Effect Heterogeneity, fMRI, Quantitative Modeling

Topic: Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications: Pubmed
Website: https://homanlab.github.io
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PD Dr. sc. nat. Simone Hornemann
Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Zürich
Simone.Hornemann@usz.ch

Research focus: We are interested in the understanding of the molecular mechanisms of protein misfolding and aggregation diseases, such as e.g. prion, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer disease. Our main goal is to clarify whether common mechanisms underlie all those diseases and ultimately to develop new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

Keywords: Neurodegenerative diseases, protein self-assembly, amyloid fibrils, amyloid structure, high-throughput screenings, diagnostic assay development, therapy
Topic: Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications: PubMed
Website: https://www.usz.ch/team/simone-hornemann/
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Prof. Dr. Thorsten Hornemann
Institute of Clinical Chemistry, University Hospital Zurich
thorsten.hornemann@usz.ch

Topic: Disorders of the Nervous System
Website: https://www.usz.ch

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Prof. Dr. med. Alexander Huber
Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Zurich
direktion.orl@usz.ch

Research focus: In our laboratory for biomechanics of hearing we develop a comprehensive understanding and a detailed theoretical model of the physiological and pathological processes of the peripheral auditory system (from the pinna to the auditory nerve).
The objectives are 1) Experimental studies of physiological and pathological processes of hearing, 2) The development of a detailed mathematical model of hearing, and 3) The optimization and development of hearing aids and hearing prostheses in collaboration with the industry. We are an interdisciplinary research team of graduates from different specialties, with competence in investigation techniques of acoustics, vibro-mechanics, fluid dynamics, electrophysiology and behavioral audiometry by taking into account the latest measurement technology.

Keywords: Hearing, Biomechanics, Implants
Topics: Sensory Systems, Biomedical Technology and Imaging
Website: https://www.usz.ch
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Prof. Dr. Reto Huber
University Children’s Hospital Zurich and University Clinics for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Zurich
reto.huber@kispi.uzh.ch

Research focus: Sleep wake regulatory mechanisms seem to be casually related to cortical plasticity. More specifically, wakefulness favours synaptic strengthening or synapse formation. On the other hand, sleep, in particular deep sleep, promotes synaptic weakening or synapse elimination, ensuring synaptic homeostasis. Cortical plasticity plays a key role for brain maturation. A large body of evidence indicates that aberrations in the trajectory of cortical plasticity are linked to the development of psychiatric disorders. We investigate mechanism underlying the interplay between sleep and wakefulness and how such mechanisms may impact the remodelling of cortical circuits during development and therefore might be related to the susceptibility of psychopathology.

Keywords: sleep regulation, cortical maturation, synaptic plasticity, high-density EEG, MRI, closed-loop stimulation
Topics: Sleep and Sleep Disorders, Development
Publications: PubMed
Websites: https://www.kispi.uzh.ch  http://www.kjpd.uzh.ch
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Dr. Michèle Hubli
Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich
michele.hubli@balgrist.ch

Research focus: Our primary research interest lies in the field of maladaptive neuroplastic changes after neurological trauma, such as spinal cord injury (SCI). Employing a variety of neurophysiological and autonomic assessments such maladaptive changes within the somatosensory system, i.e., the development of neuropathic pain, as well as the autonomic nervous system are investigated in human SCI. Current projects in the lab focus on i) sensory-autonomic interaction using contact-heat and sympathetic skin responses; ii) temporal summation of pain and conditioned pain modulation; iii) multi-modal electrophysiology of the spinothalamic tract.
Consolidated mechanistic understanding of the sensory and autonomic plasticity is highly relevant in the process of evaluation and design of novel therapeutic interventions in human SCI and the stratification of patients for clinical trials.

Keywords: clinical neurophysiology, neuropathic pain, spinal reflexes, autonomic nervous system, spinal cord injury
Topics: Sensory System, Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications: PubMed
Websites:  https://www.sci-research.uzh.ch
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Dr. med. MSc. Michael Hugelshofer
Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital and University of Zurich
Michael.Hugelshofer@usz.ch
Michael.Hugelshofer@uzh.ch

Research focus: As a neurosurgeon-scientist my research focuses on the complex pathophysiology of secondary brain injury after hemorrhagic stroke with the aim to develop new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
Since 2016, we have established an interdisciplinary scientific network to investigate the toxicity of cell-free hemoglobin in the brain. We were able to define delocalization of hemoglobin from the CSF into cerebrovascular vessel walls and the interstitial space of the brain as the pivotal step for hemoglobin’s toxic effects. Further we could proof the concept of intracerebroventricular haptoglobin treatment to compartmentalize and detoxify hemoglobin within the CSF compartment in translational animal models.
Our current projects focus on bench-to-bedside translation of this knowledge to diagnostic and therapeutic clinical applications.

Keywords: hemorrhagic stroke, hemoglobin, haptoglobin, secondary brain injury, neuroprotection, translational neuroscience, neurosurgery
Topics: Disorders of the Nervous System; Biomedical Technology and Imaging   
Websites: https://www.usz.ch https://primelab.ch/
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PD Dr. med. Lukas Imbach
Clinical Neurophysiology, Swiss Epilepsy Center
lukas.imbach@kliniklengg.ch

Research focus: We study the neurophysiological underpinnings of epilepsy in humans. A special research focus lies on network properties of epileptogenesis at different scales. On the smallest scale, we explore network alterations in micro circuitries of single neurons within the epileptogenic zone. On the other end of the spectrum, we investigate large-scale network dynamics involved in seizure propagation and their evolution comprising widespread brain regions. To this end, we study scalp EEG, intracranial EEG, single unit activity and EEG source imaging in combination with theory-based models of brain connectivity. The key insights are used to derive novel biomarkers of epilepsy and to modulate imbalanced epileptic network states by means of invasive and non-invasive brain stimulation technics such as deep brain stimulation (DBS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). Other areas of interest include single neuron activity obtained in intracranial EEGs to study basic neurobiological mechanisms of cognitive functions.

Topics: Disorders of the Nervous System
Keywords: Epilepsy, EEG, network dynamics, EEG modeling, single unit recordings, brain stimulation, epilepsy surgery
Publications:  PubMed    Google Scholar
Website: https://kliniklengg.ch
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Prof. Dr. Giacomo Indiveri
Institute of Neuroinformatics, University of Zurich
giacomo@ini.uzh.ch

Research focus: Our research concerns the analysis and development of computational models, hybrid analog/digital VLSI circuits, and multi-chip event-based systems for implementing real-time distributed neural processing systems, and eventually building Neuromorphic Cognitive Systems (i.e. neuromorphic architectures that can learn and reason about the actions to take, in response to the combinations of external stimuli, internal states, and behavioral objectives).
The neuromorphic cognitive systems we develop are typically real-time behaving systems comprising multi-chip, multi-purpose spiking neural architectures. They are used to validate brain inspired computational paradigms in real-world scenarios, and to develop a new generation of fault-tolerant event-based computing technologies.

Keywords: Neuromorphic, learning, plasticity, attention, electronic circuits
Topic: Computation and Modeling
Publications:Google Scholar
Website: https://www.ini.uzh.ch/en/research/groups/ncs.html

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PD Dr. Dr. med. Andras Jakab
Center for MR-Research, University Children’s Hospital Zurich
andras.jakab@kispi.uzh.ch

Research focus: Our research focus is studying normal and pathological human brain development using non-invasive medical imaging approaches, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) prenatally and in early postnatal life. We aim to understand how common congenital disorders affect brain development, and how these manifest in clinical symptoms. We are interested in utilizing the latest computational image analysis approaches to improve data quality, and to construct models of human development. We also support interdisciplinary clinical research projects that consist of radiologists, neonatologists, neurosurgeons and basic scientists.

Keywords: magnetic resonance imaging, brain development, fetal development, image processing
Topics: Disorders of the Nervous System, Biomedical Technology and Imaging
Publications: Google Scholar
Website: https://www.kispi.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. Sebastian Jessberger
Brain Research Institute, University of Zurich
jessberger@hifo.uzh.ch

Research focus: New neurons are continuously generated in two discrete areas of the adult brain – the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus and the subventricular zone of the lateral ventricles. Our group is interested in the underlying biology of adult neurogenesis, including the fate plasticity of adult neural stem cells (NSCs) and the molecular mechanisms governing stem cell activity and neuronal integration. Currently, we use gene expression profiling together with analyses of the metabolic state of NSCs and their progeny to study the molecular framework of NSC diversity in the adult brain and to identify novel regulators of the neurogenic process. In addition, our laboratory aims to understand how physiologic and disease-associated alterations of the neurogenic niche are translated into stem cell-associated plastic changes of the adult brain on a cellular but also behavioral level.

Keywords: Neural stem cells, hippocampus, ageing
Topic: Development and Regeneration
Publications: http://www.hifo.uzh.ch
Website: http://www.hifo.uzh.ch
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Dr. sc. Jingjing Jiang, Junior Group Leader
Department of Neonatology, University Hospital and University of Zurich
jingjing.jiang@usz.ch

Research focus  Non-invasive neuroimaging is crucially needed for examining functional brain activities for researchers and clinicians. My research interests lie in the area of biomedical imaging, specifically tomography using near infrared light. This technique detects changes in parameters relevant to brain function non-invasively.

Keywords: Near infrared optical tomography, brain imaging, time of flight imaging
Topic: Biomedical Technology and Imaging
Publications: Google Scholar
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Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Hennric Jokeit
Institut für Neuropsychologische Diagnostik und Bildgebung, Schweizerisches Epilepsie-Zentrum, Klinik Lengg , Zürich
h.jokeit@swissepi.ch

Research focus: Temporal lobe epilepsy is the most prevalent form of refractory focal epilepsy. Functional and structural impairment within and remote from mesial temporal lobe structures characterize this chronic disorder. Deficits in anterograde episodic memory, executive and attention functions, and social cognition are frequent in patients with mesial temporal lobe epilepsies. Our primary research focus is on less well studied deficits in social cognition using behavioral testing, functional, and structural magnetic resonance imaging. Moreover, we develop and validate fMRI paradigms to activate reliably specific target structures in individual patients in order to improve the presurgical workup of patients who are candidates for epilepsy surgery.

Keywords: epilesy, epilepsy surgery, temporal lobe, memory, affective and social cognition, fMRI
Topic: Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications: PubMed
Website: https://kliniklengg.ch
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Prof. Dr. Catherine Jutzeler
Institute for Translational Medicine, Department of Health Science and Technologies, ETH Zurich
Catherine.Jutzeler@hest.ethz.ch

Research focus: The Biomedical Data Science Lab (BMDS) is an interdisciplinary, motivated, young research team working at the intersection of medicine, data science, and biology. Our research aims to identify causes, risk factors, and biomarkers of disease progression. At the core of our research is a series of prospective and retrospective investigations that integrate genetic, biochemical, clinical assessments, and medication history with both traditional epidemiological approaches and machine-learning algorithms. Currently, we are doing research in the fields of spinal cord injury, lower back pain, and infectious diseases (e.g., sepsis in children and adults). In addition to research, we are involved in teaching activities. The major goal is to provide the students with an introduction to applied data science (programming, analysis, visualization) to solve biomedical questions.

Keywords: Biomedicine, Spinal Cord Injury, Infectious Disease, Data Science, Epidemiology, Machine Learning
Topics: Disorders of the Nervous System, Computation and Modeling
Publications: Google Scholar
Website: https://hest.ethz.ch
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Prof. Dr. Theofanis Karayannis
Brain Research Institute, University of Zurich
karayannis@hifo.uzh.ch

Research focus: The brain begins to form during embryogenesis, but undergoes a protracted period of development that lasts into adulthood. Our work is aimed at understanding how the environment moulds the construction and reconfiguration of neuronal circuits to allow them to effectively process and respond to external stimuli throughout development. The goal is to unravel how the interplay between electrical activity and genetic programs controls the assembly and plasticity of cortical circuits that are involved in processing and gating sensory information. To achieve this, we utilize a multi-dimensional approach that includes molecular, genetic and functional methods. It is our hope that this research will not only provide insights into the making of the healthy brain, but also into neurodevelopmental brain pathologies resulting from aberrant circuit wiring.

Topics: Development and Regeneration, Sensory Systems, Disorders of the Nervous System, Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience, Neural Basis of Behavior
Website: http://www.hifo.uzh.ch
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Dr. phil. Iliana I. Karipidis, Junior Group Leader
Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Zurich
iliana.karipidis@kjpd.uzh.ch

Research focus: We use pediatric neuroimaging techniques (MRI and EGG) to understand the neurobiological mechanisms underlying sex and gender differences in specific learning disorders and psychiatric disorders that emerge during childhood and adolescence. One of my current projects focuses on understanding the effects of sex steroids on reward processing during puberty. In collaboration with the Hong Lab at Stanford University, we examine effects of gender-affirming hormone therapy on neurodevelopment in transgender youth. The goal of this research is to increase our understanding of transgender health, promote well-being in gender minority youth, and enable the integration of evidence about sex and gender differences into clinical practice of child and adolescent psychiatry.

Keywords: pediatric neuroimaging, reading acquisition, specific learning disorders, gender identity, sex differences
Topics: Cognitive Neuroscience, Neural Basis of Behavior
Publications: Google Scholar
Website: https://www.kjpd.uzh.ch/de/multimod/neuroimaging/team/karipidis.html
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Dr. Annika Keller
Division of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Zurich
Annika.Keller@usz.ch

Research focus: We are elucidating molecular mechanisms by which vascular dysfunction in the CNS leads to neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration.
Our current research focuses on unravelling the molecular mechanisms by which pericyte dysfunction leads to microvessel calcification. We are also investigating the consequences of vessel dysfunction on neural function, especially focusing on the dysregulation of microglia and astrocyte function in pathological microvessel calcification.

Keywords: blood-brain barrier, pericytes, endothelium, neuroinflammation, microvessel calcification
Topic: Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience
Publications: PubMed
Website: https://akellerlab.ch
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Prof. Dr. med. Emanuela Keller
Neurointensive Care Unit, Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Zurich
emanuela.keller@usz.ch

Research focus:

• Development of new methods to estimate brain perfusion and oxygenation
• Optical spectroscopy: Theoretical examinations, in vitro examinations, development of new medical devices for clinical applications
• Examination of the cerebral and systemic inflammatory response after stroke
• New treatment strategies against secondary injuries after stroke and traumatic brain injury
• Data mining, artificial intelligence and self-learning systems in intensive care medicine

Keywords: Multi-modal monitoring, cerebral hemodynamics, optical spectroscopy, stroke, subarachnoid hemorrhage
Topic: Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications: PubMed
Website: https://www.usz.ch/team/emanuela-keller
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Prof. Dr. med. Thomas M. Kessler
Neuro-Urology, Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital Zurich
thomas.kessler@balgrist.ch

Research focus: Neurogenic urinary tract, sexual and bowel dysfunction is highly prevalent and affects the lives of millions of people worldwide.
Our focus is on neuro-urological assessments and treatments with the aim to enhance quality of life, to preserve/improve upper urinary tract function, to control urinary tract infection and to achieve urinary continence.

Current projects focus on new assessments (neurophysiology, neuroimaging) of urinary tract function, novel methods to control urinary tract infections, electrotherapy for treating neurogenic urinary tract dysfunction, translational research (from animal models to daily clinical practice), and systematic reviews and meta-analyses in neuro-urology.

Keywords: Neuro-urology, urinary tract dysfunction, sexual dysfunction, bowel dysfunction, urodynamics, neuro-urological assessments and therapies, translational research
Topic: Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications: PubMed
Websites: https://www.balgrist.ch/ https://www.swisscontinencefoundation.ch/
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Dr. Sanne Kikkert
Neural Control of Movement Lab, ETH Zurich
sanne.kikkert@hest.ethz.ch

Research focus: The ability to sense through touch is fundamental to actively interact with our environment. If we lose such sensory information through injury (e.g., spinal cord injury or limb loss), our brains are deprived of a major source of input, and we are required to use novel motor strategies. My team’s research aims at exploring how human brains are affected by such changes, what neural mechanisms may underlie resulting neural reorganisation, and how the human brain responds to sensory reinstatement through neuroprosthetics. A large body of our research focuses on exploring the brainstem as a key hub in brain plasticity, a structure that has been largely overlooked in human brain plasticity research. To do so, we merge cutting-edge functional and structural neuroimaging techniques. Our findings are expected to provide fundamental insights into human brain plasticity that may ultimately be used to guide desirable plasticity, discourage maladaptive plasticity, and better tailor treatments based on individual differences.

Keywords: Plasticity, brainstem, spinal cord injury, limb loss, somatosensory, sensorimotor, (f)MRI
Topics: Sensory Systems, Disorders of the nervous system
Publications: Google Scholar
Website: https://ncm.hest.ethz.ch/the-group/team/sanne-kikkert.html
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Prof. Dr. Daniel C. Kiper
Institute of Neuroinformatics and Lifescience Zurich Learning Center, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich
kiper@ini.ethz.ch

Research focus: I am interested in the treatment of visual signals in the neocortex, on the effects of virtual reality on cortical processing, and in the ways virtual reality can be used to help neurological patients. I use primarily psychophysical and imaging techniques to probe the cortical processes underlying vision as well as those supporting plasticity in the injured brain. In addition, I develop outreach programs within the Lifescience Zurich Learning Center to promote modern biology within the swiss public school system.

Keywords: Colour vision, Psychophysics, Visual Cortex, Science education
Topic: Sensory Systems
Publications: PubMed
Website: https://www.ini.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. Tatjana Kleele
Institute of Biochemistry , ETH Zurich
tatjana.kleele@bc.biol.ethz.ch

Research Focus: Mitochondria are vital cellular organelles which perform a multitude of metabolic, biosynthetic and signaling functions. While initially perceived as isolated, static organelles, convergent advances in light microscopy have allowed us to appreciate that mitochondria form an interconnected network, communicate with other cellular organelles, and can rapidly modulate their structure to adjust to cellular needs. Mitochondrial network morphology is shaped by opposing events of fission and fusion, which are tightly regulated. Disruptions in these processes are linked to a variety of human pathologies, but mostly manifest in neurodegenerative diseases, which suggests a high vulnerability of neurons.
Our group investigates how mitochondrial homeostasis is maintained over the neuron’s lifetime and how disbalances in mitochondrial dynamics lead to pathology. For this we employ a range of super-resolution microscopy techniques, automated, AI-based data analysis, combined with biochemical methods and -omics approaches. 

Keywords: mitochondria, mitophagy, metabolism, super-resolution microscopy
Topic: Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience
Website: https://bc.biol.ethz.ch/research/kleele-group.html
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Prof. Dr. Birgit Kleim
Psychiatric University Hospital (PUK)
birgit.kleim@uzh.ch

Website: https://www.psychologie.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. Tobias Kleinjung
Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Hospital Zurich
tobias.kleinjung@usz.ch

Research focus: Tinnitus is defined as a perception of sound without any external sound source. Tinnitus is triggered by peripheral, mainly inner ear hearing loss, but the most essential changes in terms of tinnitus development take place in the central nervous system. Due to the difficult and individual pathophysiology od tinnitus no causal cure for tinnitus has been documented so far.  Most pharmacologic and psychosomatic treatment modalities aim at improving tinnitus related impact on the quality of life. Our main focus is clinical research in the field of tinnitus, hearing loss and auditory neuroplasticity. The key aspect is the search for novel treatment modalities of tinnitus and inner ear hearing loss. In terms of tinnitus the research group is engaged in the investigation of different type of neuromodulation approaches like neurofeedback and transcranial electrical brain stimulation. Furthermore, we are interested in the improvement of tinnitus subtyping. This includes the evaluation of new psychometric measurements as well as identifying of tinnitus related neuroplastic changes in the brain by EEG, MRI and PET recordings.

Keywords: tinnitus, hearing loss, auditory system, neuroplasticity
Topic: Sensory Systems
Publications: PubMed
Websites: https://www.tinnitus.uzh.ch https://www.usz.ch/fachbereich/ohren-nasen-hals-gesichtschirurgie/
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Dr. rer. nat. Uwe Konietzko
Institute for Regenerative Medicine (IREM), University of Zurich
uwe.konietzko@irem.uzh.ch

Research focus: The amyloid precursor protein (APP) is central to Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Multiple proteolytic cleavages generate several APP fragments, including the APP intracellular domain (AICD). We could show that AICD translocates to the nucleus, bound to the adaptor protein Fe65. Here, they co-localize in nuclear spots together with the lysine acetyltransferase Tip60, at the loci of regulated genes. APP thus has the capacity for nuclear signaling and we have demonstrated that this property is mediated by the amyloidogenic—disease-causing—cleavage pathway of APP. Altered AICD nuclear signaling could therefore be involved in the molecular cascades leading to neuronal death in AD. We are now striving to better understand the regulation of AICD signaling and to identify target genes that will inform us about the probable effects on synapses and that might represent novel therapeutic targets to prevent synapse loss and neuronal death in AD.

Keywords: Alzheimer’s disease, amyloid precursor protein APP, AICD, Fe65, nuclear signaling
Topic: Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications: PubMed
Website: https://www.irem.uzh.ch
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Dr. Jean-Philippe Krieger
Institute of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich
jean-philippe.krieger@vetpharm.uzh.ch

Research focus : “The gut and the brain are in constant communication. And the gut doesn’t just listen, it talks back.” Our laboratory studies this complex dialog, with a particular focus on the vagus nerve. Our primary objective is to elucidate the mechanisms through which vagal gut-brain communication regulates metabolic functions and behavioral responses. We aim to uncover how disruptions in this communication, potentially induced by dietary factors or stress, contribute to the development of metabolic and mental disorders. To achieve our goals, we follow two main strategies. Firstly, in rodent models, we employ highly specific manipulations of vagal circuits using advanced techniques such as selective lesions, chemogenetics, and optogenetics, coupled with comprehensive metabolic and behavioral analyses. Secondly, we translate our findings to human health by conducting extensive epidemiological studies in human cohorts. These studies employ novel biomarkers to understand the broad pathological relevance of vagal communication disruptions. Through this integrated approach, we seek to bridge preclinical findings with clinical data, ultimately advancing the understanding and treatment of disorders linked to the gut-brain axis.

Keywords: vagal circuits, neuroendocrine gut-brain axis, neuropeptides, brainstem, metabolic disorders, psychiatric disorders, register-based epidemiology research
Topics: Neural basis of behavior, Sensory Systems
Publications: Google Scholar
Website : https://www.thevagalab.com/
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Dr. phil. Sara Liane Kroll
Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich, Social and Affective Neuropsychopharmacology - SANPP lab
saraliane.kroll@bli.uzh.ch

Research focus: Maladaptive stress response and poor social interaction are key features of various psychiatric disorders such as stress-related psychopathologies and substance use disorder. The SANPP lab investigates neurobiological and psychological underpinnings of individual differences in social and affective processing with pharmacological manipulation to tackle psychiatric conditions. We are particularly interested in identifying individual differences in sensitivity to drug effects on stress response and social interaction, aiming to find novel vulnerability factors and treatment options for substance use disorder. In our studies, we combine behavioral, pharmacological, psychophysiological, and neurobiological approaches with a strong translational focus.

We are currently interested to identify individual differences in sensitivity to acute opioid drug effects on social and affective processing contributing to the vulnerability of development and maintenance of opioid use disorder. For this, we test the interaction between attachment style and sensitivity to a mu-opioid receptor (MOR) agonist in a laboratory setting imitating prototypical risk factors for addiction (i.e., stress response and social interaction) in healthy subjects. This project includes two subsequent studies and is funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) Ambizione Grant awarded to Dr. Kroll. With our research, we aim to provide a better mechanistic understanding of the MOR system in humans and of the vulnerability to develop and maintain opioid use disorder. In this context, we are specifically interested in the interaction between the MOR and the endocannabinoid system as a potential novel target in the treatment for opioid use disorder.

Keywords: addiction, stress response, opioid system, endocannabinoid system, social functioning, affective disorders
Topics: Neural basis of behavior, cognitive neuroscience
Publications: Google Scholar
Website: https://www.dapp.uzh.ch
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PD Dr. sc. nat. Karin Kucian, Junior Group Leader
Center for MR-Research, University Children's Hospital Zurich
karin.kucian@kispi.uzh.ch

Research focus: Our research interests in neuroscience lie in developmental neuropsychology, in particular with emphasis on neuronal correlates of number processing and calculation in children and the effects of specific learning disorders, like developmental dyscalculia, or math anxiety on brain structure and function. Based on our own findings from behavioural and brain imaging studies (magnetic resonance imaging) and current knowledge about number processing and calculation we are also involved in the development and evaluation of special interventions for children with mathematical learning problems.

Keywords: number processing, dyscalculia, calculation, development, children, intervention, brain imaging, MRI
Topic: Cognitive Neuroscience
Publications: PubMed
Website: https://www.kispi.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. Vartan Kurtcuoglu
The Interface Group, Institute of Physiology, University of Zurich
vartan.kurtcuoglu@uzh.ch

Research focus: My group’s goal is to address clinical needs through the convergence of engineering, biological and medical research. Within the neuroscience field, we focus on transport processes in the fluid spaces of the brain, namely in the cerebrospinal, interstitial and perivascular fluids. By combining computational techniques with experimental methods, we aim to understand the dynamics of cerebral fluid motion, the driving forces behind these and how they, along with the associated transport processes of metabolites and other substances, are involved in the pathogenesis of CNS disorders

Keywords: volume transmission, fluid dynamics, hydrocephalus, astrocyte network, mechanosensing
Topic: Computation and Modeling, Biomedical Technology and Imaging, Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications: http://interfacegroup.ch
Website: http://interfacegroup.ch
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Dr. Olivier Lambercy
Rehabilitation Engineering Lab, Dep. of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zürich
olivier.lambercy@hest.ethz.ch

Research Focus: In our group we are developing and clinically evaluating novel technologies to support the assessment and therapy of upper limb function in people with neurological disorders (stroke, SCI, multiple sclerosis). In particular, we are interested in using movement data (kinematic and kinetic) to derive more objective and sensitive health metrics that can help understand impairment mechanisms (in human and animal models), finely quantify functional limitations and response to therapy interventions, and develop predictive models to personalize rehabilitative treatments.

Keywords: Technology-based assessments, wearable sensors, robotics, neurorehabilitation, digital health, biomarkers
Topic: Sensory Systems, Motor System, Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications: scholar.google.ch
Website: http://www.relab.ethz.ch
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Prof. Dr. sc. nat. Hans Peter Landolt
Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zürich
landolt@pharma.uzh.ch

Research Focus: Sleep enables the brain to optimize higher cognitive functions such as learning and memory. My group focuses on the pre-clinical human neuropsychopharmacogenetics of CNS stimulants and hypnotics, and the neurochemical underpinnings of wakefulness and sleep. Along a molecule-to-human-to-medicine continuum, it aims at elucidating basic genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying sleep-related brain functions. Our research employs specific pharmacology, electro-encephalography, genotyping, brain imaging and neuro­cognitive testing to investigate the roles for neuromodulators, receptors and transporters in regulating sleep-associated waking functions. It is our vision that a basic understanding of the neuro­biological mechanisms underlying the detrimental and beneficial (i.e., antidepressant) effects of sleep loss will be translated into novel therapies that will improve brain functioning, general well-being, quality of life, and public health.

Keywords: Sleep-associated attentional, affective, and cognitive processes; individual vulnerability to sleep deprivation; disease- and age-related changes in sleep-associated brain functions
Topic: Sleep and Sleep Disorders, Neural Basis of Behavior
Publications: PubMed
Website: https://www.pharma.uzh.ch/
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Prof. Dr. Nicolas Langer
Methods of Plasticity Research, Department of Psychology, University of Zurich
n.langer@psychologie.uzh.ch

Research Focus: Our lab develops and obtains new neurophysiological and neuroimaging measures in the context of human brain and behavioral plasticity. Specifically, we investigate the potential for plasticity, mechanisms for stabilization and compensation across the lifespan. In particular, we investigate the relationship between brain plasticity and cognitive functioning, such as perceptual processing, learning, (working-) memory, decision-making and processing speed.
In this context of neuroplasticity research, we are designing and implementing novel multi-modal paradigms (e.g. combined EEG eye-tracking), extracting and associate them with state of the art neuroscientific methods, such as functional network models, machine learning, longitudinal analyses and computational modeling. These paradigms can also be used to decompose the critical component processes underlying performance of the behavioral tests that are used routinely in clinical diagnosis. This multi-level, multi-modal design allows us to study cognitive performance and perception at their desired level of analysis, and to elucidate variations in performance across the continuum from healthy to pathological functioning. To investigate those research aims and objectives, we are using a variety of psychological and neuroscientific methods, such as EEG, eye-tracking, structural MRI & DTI, psychophysiology)
Keywords: EEG, eye-tracking, cognitive modeling, machine-learning, cognition, multi-modal imaging, structural MRI, DTI, development, neurophenotyping, Research Domain Criteria (RDoC).

Topics: Cognitive Neuroscience, Computation and Modeling, Neural Basis of Behavior, Development and Regeneration
Publications: Google ScholarPubMed
Website: http://www.psychologie.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. Shih-Chii Liu
Institute of Neuroinformatics (INI), University of Zurich and ETH Zurich
shih@ini.uzh.ch

Research Focus: I co-lead the sensors group at INI. Our group develops neuromorphic silicon cochlea and retina sensors and methods for processing their output. My focus is on the design of silicon spiking cochleas such as the AEREAR2 cochlea, and the development of real-time event-driven auditory processing algorithms and networks for tasks such as classification and recognition, and together with the dynamic vision sensor (DVS) in tasks such as sensory fusion tasks. These sensors and processing methods are inspired by the organizing principles of the nervous system. We also look for neural electronic equivalents of these algorithms through implementations in FPGA or in custom silicon, for example, silicon dendritic circuits and in the process, we hope to develop an understanding of some of the principles used in our brains for processing information.

Keywords: neuromorphic sensor, cochlea, networks, deep spiking networks, auditory systems, spike coding,
Topic: Computation and Modeling, Sensory Systems
Publications: http://sensors.ini.uzh.ch
Website: https://sensors.ini.ch/people/shih-chii-liu
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Prof. Andreas Luft
Division of Vascular Neurology and Neurorehabilitation, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich
andreas.luft@uzh.ch

Research Focus: Despite the effectiveness of acute stroke therapies, up to 80% of stroke patients are left disabled due to motor, speech, visual or cognitive impairment. With more than 16’000 new strokes happening in Switzerland every year and an aging population, neurorehabilitation is becoming ever more important.
In our laboratory, we explore the brain's capacity for recovery and plasticity in patients and animal models.
Our main goals are to identify mechanisms of cortical plasticity during learning and recovery after brain lesions and to identify predictors of good recovery and outcome after stroke. By improving our understanding of the processes involved in functional recovery after stroke, we hope to develop novel rehabilitation therapies, as well as to improve existing ones.

Keywords: stroke, functional recovery, neuroplasticity, motor learning
Topic: Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications:PubMed
Website: https://www.usz.ch
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Dr. Caroline Lustenberger
Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich
caroline.lustenberger@hest.ethz.ch

Research Focus: Identifying strategies to promote healthy ageing has gained considerable interest. Sleep represents a fundamental restorative process and is essential for our health. With increasing age, sleep quality can be greatly reduced and thus restorative processes less pronounced suggesting it to be a prime target to promote healthy ageing. Yet, efficient sleep interventions that can promote recovery processes of brain and body to promote the health span are not established because scientific insights in the causal role of specific sleep processes in these recovery processes are missing. My team’s research aims at identifying the role of brain activity during sleep in recovery processes of brain and body from young to old age. To do so, we will merge cutting-edge non-invasive (closed-loop) brain stimulation techniques to modulate sleep oscillations with advanced body (e.g. cardiovascular, metabolic) and brain assessments (e.g. EEG, cognitive functions) to delineate the causal role of sleep oscillations in these functions. Our findings might proof transformative for maintaining health up until old age and open completely new opportunities for modulating regenerative processes across the brain and body.

Keywords: sleep oscillations, high-density EEG, non-invasive closed-loop stimulation, memory consolidation, cognition, ageing, cardiovascular function and health, metabolic function and health, restoration
Topic: Sleep and sleep disorders, Cognitive Neuroscience
Publications: Google Scholar
Website: https://ncm.hest.ethz.ch
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Prof. Dr. Thomas A. Lutz
Institute of Veterinary Physiology, Vetsuisse-Faculty, University of Zurich
tomlutz@vetphys.uzh.ch

Research Focus: The two main research areas are the control of food intake, including the pathophysiology of obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus.
I have a strong background in physiology (neuroendocrinology and neurophysiology) with the specific focus on the central nervous system control of food intake and the pathophysiology of obesity. My group mainly studies the central mediation of the peptidergic control of eating, and we focus particularly on gastrointestinal hormones like amylin, glucagon-like peptide-1 and others. We are interested in the improved hypothalamic leptin sensitivity induced by the pancreatic hormone amylin, which seems to be mediated by the release of IL-6 from microglia. Recently, we also started to investigate mechanisms of food reward by the use of fast scan cyclic voltammetry (FSCV). This technique allows the measurement of dopamine secretion in brain regions of interest with a temporal resolution in the second range.

Keywords: Amylin, Leptin, Cytokines, Hypothalamus, Bariatric surgery, Type 2 diabetes mellitus
Topic: Neural Basis of Behavior
Publications: PubMed
Website: http://www.vetphys.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. Isabelle Mansuy
Brain Research Institute, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich
mansuy@hifo.uzh.ch

Research Focus: The laboratory is interested in the epigenetic basis of complex brain functions and their inheritance. With a focus on childhood trauma, we are studying the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the influence of life experiences on mental and physical health across generations. We developed a transgenerational mouse model of postnatal trauma, and are investigating epigenetic processes at the level of DNA, RNA and protein in whole tissues and individual cells including brain and germ cells. DNA methylation, small and long non-coding RNA, chromatin structure and accessibility and their causal relevance for the expression and the transmission of trauma symptoms are examined. The major goal is to clarify the functional interplay between the genome and epigenome in the inheritance of environmentally-induced phenotypes. We also conduct translational studies on blood, saliva and sperm of human subjects exposed to childhood trauma in collaboration with clinicians and psychiatrists to validate findings in mice, and explore the potential for diagnostic and therapeutic strategies based on epigenetic factors.

Keywords: Epigenetics inheritance, childhood trauma, mouse model, brain, germ cells, multi-omics, RNA-seq, bisulfite pyrosequencing, ATAC-seq, ChIP-seq, CRISPR-dCas9, 3D cellular models, behavior, bioinformatics, psychiatry.
Topic: Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience, Disorders of the Nervous System, Neural Basis of Behavior
Publications: PubMed
Website: https://www.hifo.uzh.ch

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Prof. Dr. Valerio Mante
Institute of Neuroinformatics, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich
valerio@ini.uzh.ch

Topic: Sensory Systems
Website: https://www.ini.uzh.ch/en/research/groups/mante.html
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Prof. Dr. Mike Martin
Dept of Psychology, Gerontopsychology, University of Zurich
m.martin@psychologie.uzh.ch

Topic: Cognitive Neuroscience
Website: https://www.psychologie.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. med. Roland Martin
Institute of Experimental Immunology , University of Zurich
roland.martin@uzh.ch

Research Focus: The focus of our research is to understand better the disease heterogeneity of Multiple Sclersosis using imaging techniques (MRI and optical coherence tomography, OCT), biological markers and motor function. In the laboratory we examine disease mechanisms of MS with particular focus on cellular immunology and biochemistry. We strive at developing new treatments particularly in areas of unmet medical needs of MS such as neuroprotection, induction of tolerance and regenerative therapies.

Keywords:  Multiple sclerosis, T cell, antigen-specific tolerization, progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, experimental therapy
Topic: Neuroimmunology
Publications: Google Scholar
Website: http://www.multiplesclerosis.uzh.ch
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PD Dr. Michael L. Meier
Integrative Spinal Research Group, Department of Chiropractic Medicine, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich
michael.meier@balgrist.ch

Research Focus: People move differently in the presence of (or in anticipation of) pain. Changes in motor control may play an important role in musculoskeletal pain. In our laboratory, we use an interdisciplinary approach that combines neuroscience and movement biomechanics research to provide new insights into the role of possible interactions between motor control and psychological factors in the development and maintenance of low back pain. The methodological basis includes the assessment of psychological factors, biomechanical assessments of movement during functional activities based on high-resolution optical motion capture and musculoskeletal modeling, and generation of cortical topographic maps of paraspinal afferent input using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Ultimately, this cross-disciplinary approach might lead to a better understanding of low back pain with the potential to translate into clinical research for better treatment options.

Keywords: low back pain, pain-related fear, spine kinematics, biomechanics, spinal load, proprioception, movement
Topics: Sensory Systems and Motor Systems
Publications: orcid
Website: https://www.balgrist.ch
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Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Martin Meyer
Department of Comparative Language Science, Evolutionary Neuroscience of Language Lab, University of Zurich
martin.meyer@uzh.ch

Research Focus: The focus of his research is on the relationship between hearing-language-brain. In this context, his research activities touch upon basic research-oriented questions on the evolution of prosody, rhythm and syntax as well as application-oriented aspects (the relationship of age-related hearing loss, central auditory disorders and neuroanatomical plasticity as well as the neuroplasticity of tinnitus).

Keywords: Evolution of language and communication, functional neuranatomy of language and hearing, neuropsychology of language across the lifespan, neuroplasticity of tinnitus, neuromodulatory approaches in the treatment of chronic tinnitus, neurocognitive aspects of hearing loss, age-related hearing loss (presbycusis) and atrophy

Topic: Cognitive Neuroscience
Publications: https://www.comparativelinguistics.uzh.ch/en/ENL/Publications.html
Websites: https://www.comparativelinguistics.uzh.ch/en/ENL.html  
https://www.tinnitus.uzh.ch/de.html
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Prof. Dr. Urs Meyer
Institute of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich
urs.meyer@vetpharm.uzh.ch

Research Focus: Our main research interest is centered upon the question of how early-life environmental adversities such as prenatal infection, pubertal stress, and nutritional imbalances can influence brain development and shape the risk of long-term brain abnormalities. Our work combines behavioral and cognitive tests, immunological assays and neuroanatomical techniques in rodent models, including models of gene-environment and environment-environment interactions relevant to multifactorial neurodevelopmental disorders such as schizophrenia and autism. Our research also includes molecular investigations to examine the role of epigenetic processes in environmentally induced brain pathologies and uses pharmacological approaches with the aim to establish novel symptomatic and preventive treatments against chronic brain disorders with neurodevelopmental origins.
Keywords: Autism, behavior, cognition, cytokines, epigenetics, infection, inflammation, neurodevelopment, schizophrenia.

Topic: Neural Basis of Behavior; Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications: publons Google Scholar
Website: http://www.vpt.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. Lars Michels
Department of Neuroradiology, University Hospital of Zurich
lars.michels@usz.ch

Research Focus: My research foci are on the understanding of basic neurophysiological processes as well as structural and functional brain connectivity and plasticity during brain development, aging, and brain disorders (dementia and migraine). To address these questions, I am using a multimodal imaging (and neurostimulation) approach, including techniques such as structural MRI, spinal cord fMRI, high-density EEG, EEG-fMRI, (dynamic) ASL, MR spectroscopy, DTI, QSM, iVASO, WEPCAST, and tDCS. Currently, I am investigating the impact of real-time fMRI neurofeedback intervention on attention and visual brain processing and (tDCS) neurostimulation for reducing migraine.

Keywords: basic neurophysiology, multimodal brain imaging, aging, EEG-fMRI, neurostimulation, neurofeedback, short-term memory.
Topics: Cognitive neuroscience, Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications: researcherid.com PubMed             Google Scholar
Website: https://www.usz.ch/team/lars-michels
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Dr. Linjing Mu
Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich
Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, ETH Zurich
linjing.mu@usz.ch linjing.mu@pharma.ethz.ch

Research Focus:  Our group focuses on non-invasive positron emission tomography (PET) tracer development for imaging neurodegenerative diseases. We are working on several targets including the glutamate receptors, cannabinoid and endocannabinoid systems and ATP Synthase. To characterize the target, murine and post-mortem human tissues will be used to analyze the target in various diseases by qPCR, confocal microscopy and flow cytometry; in vitro autoradiography will be employed to understand the tracer’s specificity and selectivity. Depends on the target, different animal models will be used for in vivo PET imaging. In our GMP lab, several CNS PET ligands are routinely synthesized and applied for drug development and studying brain functions.

Keywords: PET tracer development, non-invasive PET imaging, drug development, Alzheimer’s disease, neuroinflammation.
Topic: Biomedical Technology and Imaging
Publications: orcid
Website: http://www.radiopharmaceutical-science.ethz.ch
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Prof. Dr. Martin Müller
Institute of Molecular Life Sciences, University of Zurich
Martin.Mueller@imls.uzh.ch

Research Focus: We are interested in understanding how characteristic functional properties of synapses are established, maintained, and modulated. What are the mechanisms that stabilize synapse function, and how are these mechanisms related to processes that alter synaptic activity? We study these questions using a combination of genetics, electrophysiology, and functional imaging of synaptic transmission in Drosophila. We are also in the process of translating interesting findings from Drosophila into the mammalian central nervous system. We hope that our work may help unraveling the mechanisms that are involved in preventing uncontrolled neural activity during neural pathology, while providing the nervous system with the capacity for change.

Keywords: Synaptic transmission, homeostatic plasticity, synaptic plasticity, electrophysiology, Ca2+ imaging, genetics, Drosophila, mouse brain slices
Topic: Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience
Publications: https://www.mls.uzh.ch/en.html
Website:  https://www.mls.uzh.ch/en/research/mueller.html
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Prof. Dr. med. Giancarlo Natalucci
University Hospital Zürich, Department of Neonatology
giancarlo.natalucci@usz.ch

Research Focus: will follow
Keywords: outcome, child development, neurodevelopment, quality of life; nutrition; neuroprotection, neuromonitoring, post-discharge supportive intervention; parenting; preterm birth, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy; cohort study.
Topic: Disorders of the Nervous System
Website: https://www.usz.ch/team/giancarlo-natalucci
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Prof. Dr. Stephan Neuhauss
Institute of Molecular Life Sciences, University of Zurich
stephan.neuhauss@imls.uzh.ch

Research Focus: We exploit the superb genetics of the zebrafish (Danio rerio) model system to study the development and function of the vertebrate visual system and its diseases. Our current research focuses on the adaptation of the cone photoreceptor visual transduction cascade, glutamate homeostasis in the cone photoreceptor synapse and building genetic disease models for retinal dystrophies. We use a combination of molecular genetics, histology, electrophysiology and behavioral analysis. Additionally we are interested in the evolution of protein families involved in vision in chordates.

Keywords: Retina, Vision, Zebrafish, Cone Photoreceptors, Synaptic Transmission, Glutamate, Evolution
Topic: Sensory Systems
Publications: PubMed
Website: https://www.mls.uzh.ch
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Dr. Ruiqing Ni
Institute for Biomedical Engineering
ni@biomed.ee.ethz.ch

Research Focus: My research goal is to understand the mechanisms underlying Alzheimer’s disease, with a focus on detecting aberrant brain network activity, Aβ, tau and neurodegeneration by using multiscale high-resolution neuroimaging techniques (MRI, Optoacoustic tomography, PET).
Keywords: Alzheimer’s disease, Neuroimaging, transgenic mouse models
Topic: Biomedical Technology and Imaging, Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications: PubMed
Website: http://www.biomed.ee.ethz.ch
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Dr. Daniela Noain
Department of Neurology, University Hospital Zurich
daniela.noain@usz.ch

Research Focus: What restorative and/or neuroprotective processes unfold in the sleeping brain? Is slow-wave sleep a key player to their regulation and execution? And, therefore, could slow-wave sleep modulation be used to influence the course of neuropathological processes? The focus of our research is exploring the role of slow-wave sleep in the levels of brain proteins that lead to neurodegeneration. Aiming at implementing translational and highly specific slow-wave sleep modulation strategies in transgenic rodent models of disease, we develop innovative techniques, such as closed-loop acoustic stimulation of slow oscillations. Our ultimate goal is providing tools for and proof that modulations of slow-wave sleep regulate protein clearance in the sleeping brain and, therefore, could be translated into novel non-invasive human therapies against Alzheimer and Parkinson Disease, the two most common protein aggregation-related neurodegenerative diseases.

Keywords: Slow-wave sleep, modulation of sleep-wake states, neurodegeneration, Alzheimer disease, Parkinson disease, traumatic brain injury, brain clearance, behavioral testing.
Topic: Sleep and Sleep Disorders, Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications: PubMed Google Scholar
Website: http://www.sleep.uzh.ch
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Dr. Tina Notter
Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich
tina.notter@uzh.ch

Research Focus: The main research focus of our group is to define the role of astrocytes in postnatal synaptic refinement of the prefrontal cortex (PFC). One distinctive feature of the PFC is its protracted adolescent maturation, which is necessary for acquiring mature cognitive abilities in adulthood. One of our primary aims is to determine the role of astrocytes in the structural and functional maturation of the PFC.  Long thought to act merely as a structural support of neurons, astrocytes are now known to actively integrate, process and contribute to neuronal signaling. They are essential for early brain development regulating synaptogenesis and assuring correct wiring of the brain. More recently, astrocytes have been shown to actively participate in the rewiring of neuronal connections during brain maturation, a process involving the elimination of superfluous synapses, whereby neuronal circuits are optimized. Using a multi-disciplinary approach including chemogenetics, in-vivo two-photon imaging, immunohistochemistry, and behavioral analyses in mouse models, we investigate whether astrocyte-dependent synaptic elimination is indispensable for the normal development of neuronal networks subserving adult cognitive functions. In addition, we thrive to unravel the functional and behavioral consequences of aberrant astrocyte activity in the matured PFC. We hereby focus on understanding how astrocytes actively integrate, process and contribute to PFC synaptic signaling and thereby modulate behavioral and cognitive functions with relevance to psychiatric disorders.

Keywords: Astrocytes, medial prefrontal cortex, brain maturation, adolescence, synaptic refinement, cognition, behavior, psychiatric disorders
Topics: Neural Basis of Behavior, Development and Regeneration, Molecular and Cellular
Publications: PubMed
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Dr. Ruth O'Gorman Tuura
University Children's Hospital Zurich, Center for MR Research
ruth.tuura@kispi.uzh.ch

Research Focus: Our research focuses on the application of advanced MRI methods for evaluating brain physiology, such as arterial spin labelling perfusion MRI, edited MR spectroscopy, diffusion tensor MRI, functional MRI, and quantitative MR Relaxometry, to studies of brain development in children and adolescents. This multimodal approach yields important insight into the complex pattern of physiological changes associated with typical and atypical brain development, but also with different brain states like sleep and wake states. Together with our clinical collaborators, we aim to improve our understanding of the neural correlates of atypical development, and identify neuroimaging biomarkers for outcome in infants and children at risk for neurodevelopmental impairment. We also support interdisciplinary clinical research across a range of specialties including neonatology, cardiology, radiology, paediatrics, neurology, and psychiatry

Keywords: neuroimaging, structural MRI, MRS, DTI, fMRI, perfusion MRI, development, sleep
Topics: Development and Regeneration” and “Sleep and Sleep Disorders”
Publications: scopus
Website: https://www.kispi.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. Tommaso Patriarchi
Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich
patriarchi@pharma.uzh.ch

Research Focus:  The sheer complexity of neural communication relies on the production and secretion of various neurochemicals. A central question in neuroscience is to understand how precise fluctuations of these molecules relate to behavioral and/or disease states. Yet, technologies capable of addressing this question in living animals with the required spatiotemporal resolution and molecular specificity are largely lacking.
Our Group focuses on developing novel genetically encoded fluorescent sensors based on combined engineering of fluorescent proteins and endogenous receptor molecules (e.g. G-protein coupled receptors) to enable specific and high-resolution optical dissection of neurochemical dynamics in living animals. We aim to combine these molecular tools with state of the art in vivo imaging techniques (fiber photometry, two-photon imaging, optoacoustics) for investigating how neurochemicals orchestrate complex behavioral functions.

Keywords: genetically encoded sensors, GPCRs, fluorescent proteins, neuromodulators, neuropeptides, neuroimaging.
Topics: Biomedical Technology, Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience
Publications: Google Scholar
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Prof. Dr. Melika Payvand
Institute of Neuroinformatics, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich
melika@ini.uzh.ch

Research Focus: The question that drives us is to understand how intelligence emerges from the structure of its underlying substrate which will result in building intelligent systems. We combine the understandings from neuroscience, machine learning, and electrical engineering in a co-design fashion towards building low-power and high-density intelligent systems. We are specifically interested in building learning systems that can self-organize to the sensory information they receive. These systems have applications in a variety of autonomous sensory-motor systems and personalizing edge devices.

Topic: Computation and Modelling
Publications: PubMed
Website: https://services.ini.uzh.ch/people/melika
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Dr. Daria Peleg-Raibstein, Junior Group Leader
Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich
daria-peleg@ethz.ch

Research Focus: Obesity has long been identified as a global epidemic with major health implications such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancer. Maternal overnutrition and maternal obesity are significant health issues in industrial countries and are known risk factors for the development of obesity and related disorders in the offspring. The wide accessibility of junk food in recent years is one of the major causes of obesity. An excess of nutrients during fetal life not only has immediate effects on the fetus but also has long term effects on adult health. Our interest is on how maternal overnutrition can affect the development and function of the central nervous system circuits that regulate reward-related behaviors and cognitive disabilities in the offspring. We are also interested in the impact of maternal overnutrition and lifelong obesity and related metabolic consequences in the offspring.

Keywords: Obesity, addiction, maternal high-fat diet, development, cognitive functions, epigenetic, dopamine, translational research
Topic: Neural Basis of Behavior
Publications: PubMed
Website: http://www.tnb.ethz.ch
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Prof. Dr. Francesca Peri
Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, University of Zurich
francesca.peri@uzh.ch

Research Focus: Most aspects of brain development, function and, repair are not mediated by neurons alone but emerge from their interactions with other cell types. Of particular interest are microglia, the brain resident macrophages that can shape neuronal connectivity by removing dying neurons and synapses. By taking an in vivo approach that combines quantitative live imaging and cutting-edge perturbations in zebrafish, we study how microglia engulf neurons at single-cell resolution. To investigate this, we have developed tools to visualize and manipulate signals that control neuronal-microglia interactions and custom-designed microscopes that allow multi-positioning in toto brain imaging at subcellular resolution.

Keywords: Microglia, neuronal cell death, development, cell biology, neuroinflammation
Topic: Neuroimmunology, Endocrine and Autonomic Regulation
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Prof. Dr. Paola Picotti
Institute of Biochemistry, Dept Biology, ETH Zurich
paola.picotti@bc.biol.ethz.ch

Topic: Disorders of the Nervous System
Website: https://imsb.ethz.ch
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Prof. Dr. Magdalini Polymenidou
Department of Quantitative BioMedicine (DQBM), University of Zurichmagdalini.polymenidou@uzh.ch

Topic: Disorders for the Nervous System
Website: https://www.dqbm.uzh.ch
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Dr. Basil Preisig
Department of Comparative Language Sciences, University of Zurich
basilchristoph.preisig@uzh.ch

Research Focus: Hearing loss and associated conditions such as tinnitus are the fourth highest cause of disability worldwide. A common complaint of hearing impaired individuals is the significant decline of speech comprehension in the presence of noise. This applies particularly to socially relevant situations, such as discussions with several interaction partners. Unfortunately, state of the art hearing aids cannot selectively amplify one out of several speakers. My team’s research aims to elucidate the role of brain activity during auditory selective attention. More specifically, we want to understand how the brain instantiates attentional filter mechanisms that control target amplification and distractor suppression. Indeed, neuronal processes of attention control maybe impaired in hearing loss and tinnitus. However, it is still unclear whether different subprocesses like target enhancement and distractor suppression are affected differently. We aim to identify neural makers of these subprocesses in individuals with hearing loss and tinnitus using electroencephalography. Subsequently, we will test the relevance of the identified markers using cutting-edge non-invasive electric brain stimulation and neurofeedback interventions. Our findings might provide important foundations for the development of future therapeutic brain stimulation and neurofeedback interventions. In addition, the results may stimulate the technical advances relevant for the implementation of attention control in next generation hearing aids.

Keywords: auditory, attention, speech perception, language comprehension, EEG, non-invasive brain stimulation, neurofeedback, hearing loss, tinnitus
Topic: Cognitive Neuroscience, Sensory Systems
Publications:  Google Scholar
Website: https://www.comparativelinguistics.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. Klaas Prüssmann
Institute for Biomedical Engineering, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich
pruessmann@biomed.ee.ethz.ch

Topic: Biomedical Technology and Imaging
Website:  https://ee.ethz.ch
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Prof. Dr. Christopher Pryce
Dept of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric Hospital, University of Zurich
christopher.pryce@bli.uzh.ch

Research Focus: Mouse models aimed at identifying the causal pathways via which chronic psychosocial stress can lead to excessive fear and deficient motivation. Stress-immune-glia-neuron dysfunction is a pathway of major interest, and amygdala a structure of major interest.

Keywords: Stress, immune-inflammation, amygdala, oligodendrocyte, neuron, fear, motivation
Topics:  Neural Basis of Behavior, Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications: PubMed
Website: https://www.med.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Boris B. Quednow
Experimental and Clinical Pharmacopsychology, Dept of Adult Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital of Psychiatry Zurich, University of Zurich
quednow@bli.uzh.ch

Research Focus: Pharmacopsychology – today a subdiscipline of neuropsychology and biological psychology – was founded by the famous German psychiatrist Emil Kraepelin (1856-1926) and aims to explore the neurochemical basis of human cognition, emotion, and behavior. Standing in Kraepelins tradition, our main research goal is a better understanding of the neuropsychopharmacological mechanisms of cognitive and emotional brain functions and their impact specifically on social behavior in humans. We are currently investigating the neuroplasticity and behavioral neurotoxicity induced by chronic use of legal and illegal drugs, such as nicotine, methylphenidate, cocaine, MDMA (“ecstasy”), GHB, opioids, and cannabis. Furthermore, we study the molecular and neuronal basis of impaired early information processing (e.g., pre-attentional gating) up to complex cognitive functions (e.g., empathy) in psychiatric diseases such as addiction, schizophrenia, and depression.

Keywords: Neuroenhancement, drug dependence, psychosis, affective disorders, endophenotype, genetics, sensorimotor gating, prepulse inhibition, neuropsychology, social cognition, decision-making, neuroeconomics, molecular imaging, PET

Topic: Cognitive Neuroscience
Publications: PubMed
Website:  https://www.dapp.uzh.ch/en/cfpr/researchgroups/researchgroups/experimental.html
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Prof. Dr. med. Georgia Ramantani
Department of Neuropediatrics, University Children’s Hospital Zurich
georgia.ramantani@kispi.uzh.ch

Research Focus:  We aim to improve diagnostic tools for focal epilepsy, particularly in the context of epilepsy surgery, and establish pertinent biomarkers for postsurgical seizure outcomes deriving from electrophysiology and neuroimaging studies. Furthermore, we strive to provide deeper insights into the cognitive development after epilepsy surgery and to facilitate the selection of appropriate candidates. Finally, we aspire to study the processes of epileptogenesis in the immature brain, particularly in the context of neonatal seizures, and develop prognostic tools for outcome prediction.

Keywords: pediatric epilepsy; epilepsy surgery; biomarkers; outcome prediction; cognitive development; epileptogenesis; neonatal seizures
Topic: Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications: PubMed
Website: https://www.kispi.uzh.ch/forschungszentrum/forschungsgebiete/eeg-forschung
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Prof. Dr. Nora Maria Raschle
Jacobs Center for Productive Youth Development, University of Zurich
nora.raschle@jacobscenter.uzh.ch

Research Focus: In our laboratory we study typical and atypical brain development with a particular focus on socioemotional and cognitive processes. In order to assess such trajectories we employ magnetic resonance imaging techniques (f/MRI), eye-tracking, neurophysiological assessments, behavioral testing and clinical interviews. Our main goal is to contribute towards the early detection and characterization of developmental and mental health disorders. And most importantly, we always strive towards making paediatric neuroimaging child’s play, a fun and beneficial experience for all.
Our main areas of interest include: paediatric neuroimaging, brain development, brain structure, function and connectivity, socioemotional skills (emotion processing and emotion regulation), language and reading, learning, plasticity and resilience

Keywords: fMRI, MRI, brain development, paediatric neuroimagng, emotion, emotion regulation, conduct disorder, reading, developmental dyslexia
Topic: Cognitive Neuroscience, Disorders of the Nervous System
Website: https://www.jacobscenter.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. Anita Rauch
Institute of Medical Genetics, University of Zurich
anita.rauch@medgen.uzh.ch

Topic: Disorders of the Nervous System
Website: https://www.medgen.uzh.ch
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PD Dr. med. Katrin Rauen, Junior Group Leader
Consultant Neurology, Psychiatry & Psychotherapy (FMH), Somnologist (ESRS)
Head of Center for Neuropsychiatry, Department of Geriatric Psychiatry, Psychiatry University Hospital Zurich
katrin.rauen@uzh.ch

Research Focus: The overarching goal is to identify and validate clinical, blood, and advanced neuroimaging markers for patients suffering from acute or chronic TBI over the lifespan, thereby providing new clinical diagnostic algorithms and knowledge on the link between chronic neuroinflammation and posttraumatic neurodegeneration. This approach will help to develop new pharmacological and neuropsychiatric rehabilitation strategies for TBI patients, and thus will provide best quality of life for TBI patients and their relatives.

Keywords: Traumatic brain injury, neuropsychiatric burden, clinical trials, clinical diagnostic algorithm, chronic neuroinflammation, posttraumatic neurodegeneration, neuropsychiatric rehabilitation, neurotrauma outcome and quality of life.
Topics: Disorders of the Nervous System, Neuroimmunology
Publications: PubMed Google Scholar
Social Media: linkedin and twitter
Websites: www.pukzh.ch and https://europeanneutrotrauma.org and www.sleep.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. Daniel Razansky
Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich and Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zurich
daniel.razansky@pharma.uzh.ch

Research focus: Neuroscience has an urgent need for new large-scale neural recording technologies to ensure rapid progress in the understanding of brain function, diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders. At present, real-time visualization of large-scale neural dynamics is hindered with the existing neuroimaging methods due to lack of capacity for direct imaging of neural activity in large tissue volumes and at high speeds. We develop novel functional neuroimaging tools based on optoacoustics, optical microscopy, ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging to volumetrically monitor activity of large distributed neuronal populations in whole mammalian brains with unprecedented spatial and temporal resolution.

Keywords: molecular imaging, functional neuroimaging, optoacoustics, microscopy, ultrasound, fMRI
Topics: Biomedical Technology and Imaging
Publications: Google Scholar
Website:  http://www.razanskylab.org
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Prof. Dr. med. Luca Regli
Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Zurich
luca.regli@usz.ch

Topic: Disorders of the Nervous Systems
Website: https://usz-international.com
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Dr. Juliet Richetto
Institute for Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich
juliet.richetto@uzh.ch

Research Focus: Main research interests are centered upon the question of how early-life environmental adversities, such as prenatal infection or prenatal maternal isolation, can influence brain development and shape the risk of long-term brain abnormalities. Currently, we are investigating whether maternal social isolation, and concomitant pharmacological interventions, lead to genome-wide alterations in DNA methylation and gene expression in the offspring’s brain, which in turn may impact pathways and neuronal systems that underlie behavioral functioning. In addition, we are starting to explore how the microbiome may affect CNS functioning through epigenetic mechanisms. Our research is performed in mice models and combines behavioral neuroscience, neuroanatomical investigations, transcriptomics and epigenomics.
Keywords: Epigenetics, social isolation, prenatal infection, prenatal stress, depression, transcriptomics, microbiome
Topics: Disorders of the nervous system, Neural basis of behavior, Molecular and cellular neuroscience
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Prof. Dr. Ing. Robert Riener
Sensory Motors Systems Lab, Dept of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich and Paraplegic Center, University Hospital Balgrist Zurich 
riener@hest.ethz.ch

Research Focus: Robert Riener and the members of his Sensory-Motor Systems (SMS) Lab investigate the sensory-motor actions in and interactions between humans and machines. The research focuses on the study of human sensory-motor control, the design of novel mechatronic machines, and the investigation and optimisation of human-machine interaction. Riener’s Lab has developed famous rehabilitation robots (such as the ARMin) and virtual reality technologies applied to the area of neurorehabilitation. Main application areas are the fields of neuro-rehabilitation and sports. R. Riener is also the initiator and organiser of the Cybathlon 2016 in Kloten, Zurich.

Keywords: Neurorehabilitation, rehabilitaiton robotics, motor learning, control of motion, biomechatronics
Topics: Motor Systems, Biomedical Technology and Imaging
Publications: https://sms.hest.ethz.ch
Website: http://www.sms.hest.ethz.ch
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PD Dr. med. Christof Röösli
Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Zurich
christof.roeoesli@usz.ch

Research Focus: Bone conduction hearing is an alternative pathways for sound to reach the inner ear. In includes vibration of the tissue that is transmitted by several pathays to the cochlea. Our focus is to investigate these transmission pathays using an experimental approach, using computational models, and physical models. The goal is to gain a profound understanding of bone conduction hearing to lay the basis for the development of novel hearing aids.  We are an interdisciplinary research team of graduates from different specialties, with competence in investigation techniques of acoustics, vibro-mechanics and electrophysiology.

Keywords: Hearing, Bone conduction, Implants
Topic: Sensory Systems
Website: https://www.usz.ch
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PD Dr. med. Patrick Roth
Department of Neurology and Brain Tumor Center, University Hospital Zurich
patrick.roth@usz.ch

Research Focus: The research of our group focuses on the biology of malignant gliomas. These tumors are characterized by resistance to conventional therapy and paradigmatic for tumor-associated immunosuppression. Various in vitro and in vivo models including glioma stem cells have been established to address these issues. Current projects aim at assessing novel mediators of glioma immune escape and the interaction of glioma and immune cells. Furthermore, we are investigating novel therapeutic approaches in order to overcome the treatment resistance of these tumors.

Keywords: Brain cancer, glioblastoma, immune escape, immunotherapy
Topic: Disorders of the Nervous Systems
Publications: PubMed
Website: https://www.usz.ch
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Prof. Dr. Michael Rufer
Clinic for Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, University Hospital of Psychiatry, Zurich
michael.rufer@puk.zh.ch

Research Focus: One important focus is the emotion regulation and dysregulation in psychosomatic and psychiatric disorders. This includes the evaluation of different psychological constructs, such as alexithymia and dissociation, the development of assessment methods, and the investigation of neural correlates of emotion regulation. Further main research areas are multidisciplinary approaches on different aspects of the relationships between psychology and medicine, psychotherapeutic processes and outcomes, including neurobiological aspects, and technology-based psychological interventions (Internet-based and mobile interventions) for different disorders, such as anxiety and obsessive compulsive spectrum disorders.

Keywords: Emotion regulation, alexithymia, dissociation, psychotherapy, psychosomatics, neurobiology, internet-based therapy
Topics: Cognitive Neuroscience, Disorders of the Nervous System, Neural Basis of Behavior
Publications: PubMed
Website: https://www.pukzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. Christian Ruff
Laboratory for Social and Neural Systems Research (SNS-Lab), Dept of Economics, University of Zurich
christian.ruff@econ.uzh.ch

Research Focus: Humans do not react to the environment in a reflex-like manner, but can freely choose which action to perform in response to a given situation. We study the neural mechanisms that enable such flexible decision-making, ranging from influences of intention and motivation on sensory processing to the effects of affective and social contexts on choice behavior. A particular focus of our work is on using non-invasive brain stimulation techniques (TMS, tDCS), alone or on conjunction with neuroimaging techniques (fMRI, EEG), to identify truly causal links between activity patterns in brain networks and behavior.

Keywords: Decision-making, goal-directed behavior, social behavior, perception, reward processing, non-invasive brain stimulation
Topic: Cognitive Neuroscience
Publications: PubMed
Website: https://www.econ.uzh.ch
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Dr. Peter Rupprecht
Brain Research Institute, University of Zurich
rupprecht@hifo.uzh.ch

Research Focus: The main purpose of the brain is to adapt our behavior to a changing environment. But how does this occur at the level of individual neurons? In other words: how does a neuron in the brain receive feedback to improve the behavior of the organism? To study these feedback loops, we will develop tools to record and control the neuronal activity and behavior in mice. Specifically, we will use and further advance two-photon microscopy for calcium imaging in hippocampus, single-cell electrophysiology and closed-loop behavioral paradigms. Key components of our work are careful experimental design as well as in-depth data analysis rather than large-scale experiments or screens. We believe that such well-thought-out experiments and analyses are ideally suited to tackle the most challenging problems in neuroscience.

Keywords: hippocampus, calcium imaging, microscopy, patch-clamp, credit assignment problem, biological learning, deep learning
Topic: Neural Basis of Behavior, Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience
Publications: Google Scholar
Website: https://www.hifo.uzh.ch/en/research/helmchen.html
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Prof. Dr. Aiman Saab
Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich
asaab@pharma.uzh.ch

Research Focus: Myelinating oligodendrocytes and astrocytes are suggested to play an important role in maintaining neuronal functions and long-term integrity. In white matter tracts, axons are almost completely ensheathed by myelin and the axonal compartment may receive metabolic support from surrounding glial cells. Our research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms governing neuron-glial interactions and metabolic cooperation. How do myelinating oligodendrocytes and astrocytes sense neuronal activity and how are these signals translated into maintaining neuronal functions in the young and aging brain? Could perturbations in glial metabolic support to axons impact the etiology and pathogenesis of age-related neuropsychiatric and degenerative diseases? To address these questions we combine molecular genetics, electrophysiology, in vivo and ex vivo two-photon imaging, histology, electron microscopy and behavioural studies in various transgenic and knockout mouse models to investigate cellular mechanisms regulating intercellular communication, brain energy homeostasis and cellular integrity.
Keywords: white matter, axon-glial interactions, myelinated axons, oligodendrocytes, astrocytes, axonal integrity and energy metabolism, neurodegeneration

Topics: Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience, Disorders of the Nervous Systems, Biomedical Technology and Imaging
Publications: PubMed
Website: https://www.pharma.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. Johannes Sarnthein
Dept of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Zurich
johannes.sarnthein@usz.ch

Research Focus: Establish neurophysiological biomarkers to improve the outcome of neurosurgical interventions. We correlate intraoperative measurements with postoperative outcome to optimize the neurophysiological guidance of the surgeon. We analyze data obtained during surgery to investigate the physiological mechanisms involved. For example, high-frequency oscillations (HFO) are a promising new marker for epileptogenic brain tissue in intracranial recordings in epilepsy patients, both before and after resection of the epileptogenic zone.

Keywords: intraoperative neuromonitoring; patient registry; tumor; epilepsy
Topic: Biomedical Technology and Imaging
Publications: PubMed  Google Scholar
Website: https://hfozuri.ch
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Dr. Sebastian Sauppe
Department of Psychology, University of Zurich
sebastian.sauppe@uzh.ch

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Prof. Dr. Paul Sauseng
Department of Psychology, University of Zurich
p.sauseng@psychologie.uzh.ch

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Dr. Dr. med. Milan Scheidegger
Psychedelic Research & Therapy Development, Department of Adult Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Psychiatric University Clinic Zurich and University of Zurich
milan.scheidegger@bli.uzh.ch

Research Focus: Our research group is dedicated to advancing the understanding of psychedelic medicines and their therapeutic potential in mental health. By investigating their transdiagnostic mechanisms of action, we aim to uncover how psychedelics enhance neurobehavioral plasticity, facilitate therapeutic experiences, and support psychotherapeutic processes.
We integrate neuroscience, clinical research, and psychotherapy development to study compounds such as ayahuasca-analogue DMT formulations, 5-MeO-DMT, psilocybin, and ketamine. Our mission is to bridge early-phase clinical research and drug development with psychotherapy innovation, translating basic science into safe, effective, and scalable interventions that redefine psychedelic treatment paradigms in mental health care.

Keywords: Psychedelics, Ayahuasca & DMT, 5-MeO-DMT, Clinical Trials, Psychotherapy Research, Drug Development, Brain Imaging, Virtual Reality, Biomarkers, Substance Use Disorders, Affective and Anxiety Disorders, Stress-related Disorders, Chronic Pain, Consciousness Research, Mindfulness, Phenomenology, Natural Language Processing
Topics: Cognitive Neuroscience, Disorders of the Nervous System, Neural Basis of Behavior
Publications: https://www.webofscience.com/wos/author/record/S-2358-2017
Website: Psychedelic Research & Therapy Development ___________________________________________________________________________________________

Dr. Marianne Schmid Daners
Institute for Dynamic Systems and Control, Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, ETH Zurich
marischm@ethz.ch

Research Focus: At the interdisciplinary interface of clinical research and engineering my research focuses on the modelling, control and testing of biomedical systems as well as on the development and control of devices for the treatment of hydrocephalus. One particular focus is to gain fundamental insights into the physiologic dynamics within and adjacent to the cerebrospinal fluid spaces and to develop a pathologic hydrocephalus model. In addition, my research on the cardiovascular system contributes to the understanding of intracranial and spinal dynamics and may support further work on brain perfusion.

Keywords: pressure interaction, testing, sensors, physiologic control, gait analysis, hydrocephalus
Topics: Computation and Modeling, Biomedical Technology and Imaging, Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications: Web of Science Researcher ID E-1800-2013
Website: https://idsc.ethz.ch
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Dr. Edith M. Schneider Gasser, Junior Group Leader
Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zürich
edith.schneidergasser@uzh.ch

Research Focus: We are investigating the involvement of cerebral erythropoietin (Epo) in brain maturation and its neuroprotective role in premature brain injury.
Our current research focuses on understanding how Epo influences brain energy metabolism and the interactions between blood vessels, astrocytes and neurons. We are also investigating the protective role of Epo in models of hypoxia induced brain injury and epilepsy.

Keywords: Erythropoietin, hypoxia, epilepsy, neuroprotection, hippocampus, interneurons, brain metabolism
Topics: Development and Regeneration, Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications: PubMed
Websites:http://www.vetphys.uzh.ch
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PD Dr. sc. nat. Felix Scholkmann
Neurophotonics and Biosignal Processing Research Group, Biomedical Optics Research Laboratory (BORL), Department of Neonatology, University Hospital and University of Zurich
Felix.Scholkmann@usz.ch

Research Focus: Our research aims to develop, validate and apply optical neuroimaging technologies such as functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) and near-infrared spectroscopy-based cerebral oximetry (NIRSCO). We also develop biosignal processing methods for fNIRS/NIRSCO applications in particular and physiological signals in general. We apply fNIRS/NIRSCO in different human populations (from preterm neonates to adults) and investigate the neurovascular correlates of perception, cognition and behaviour in humans using different experimental paradigms (e.g. from music exposure in preterm neonates to altered states of consciousness induced by psychedelics in adults). In addition, we investigate selected topics in human physiology (e.g. neurovascular coupling, cerebrovascular reactivity and cerebral circulation).

Keywords: functional near-infrared spectroscopy, fNIRS, near-infrared spectroscopy based cerebral oximetry, NIRSCO, optical neuroimaging, biosignal processing, integrative human physiology
Topics: Biomedical Technology and Imaging, Cognitive Neuroscience
Publications: Google Scholar
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Prof. Dr. Gerhard Schratt
Institute for Neuroscience (INS), ETH Zurich
gerhard.schratt@hest.ethz.ch

Research Focus: The correct formation and use-dependent modification of neuronal networks in the brain is a prerequisite for higher cognitive functions and complex behaviours. Disturbances in these processes can lead to severe neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders, such as autism and affective disorders. Research over the last three decades has identified activity-dependent gene expression programs that control the formation and plasticity of neuronal synapses. However, these studies mostly focussed on the role of protein-coding genes, which are encoded in less than two percent of our genomic material.

In our lab, we want to understand the function of different classes of RNAs that originate from non-coding parts of the genome (so-called non-coding RNAs) in mammalian synapse development and plasticity. A major focus is on microRNAs, small regulatory RNAs that control the expression of protein-coding genes at the post-transcriptional level. Therefore, we employ a systems approach, combining state-of-the art genomics, proteomics and mouse genetic approaches. In addition, we are addressing a potential clinical relevance of non-coding RNA pathways in different neurological conditions through multicentre collaborations.

Keywords: excitatory synapse development, synaptic plasticity, homeostatic plasticity, non-coding RNA, microRNA, knockout mice, hippocampus, social behaviour, epilepsy
Topic: Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience
Publications: PubMed
Website: https://www.neuroscience.uzh.ch
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Dr. Manuel Schröter
Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich
manuel.schroeter@bsse.ethz.ch

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Prof. Dr. Martin E. Schwab
NovaGo Therapeutics, Wagistrasse 27, 8952 Schlieren
and Academic Senior Guest at the Institute for Regenerative Medicine (IREM) of UZH
martin@novagotx.com

Research Focus: Growth and regeneration of nerve fibers are influenced by growth promoting and growth inhibiting signaling molecules. My UZH/ETHZ group has discovered the existence of myelin-associated growth inhibitors in the adult CNS and characterized an important nerve growth inhibiting membrane protein, Nogo-A. The in vivo application of anti-Nogo-A antibodies after spinal cord or brain trauma in rats or monkeys lead to outgrowth and regeneration of injured and uninjured nerve fibers and to a high degree of functional recovery.
NovaGo Therapeutics AG, a UZH spin-off company, produces neutralizing antibodies against human Nogo-A for clinical use. These antibodies are currently tested in acute tetraplegic patients in an international consortium of leading spinal cord injury centers, in close collaboration with the Spinal Cord Injury Center at Balgrist University Hospital and the Swiss Paraplegic Center in Nottwil.

Keywords: Nogo-A, nerve fiber regeneration, plasticity, spinal cord and brain injury, myelin, rehabilitation
Topics: Disorders of the Nervous System, Development and Regeneration, Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience
Publications: PubMed
Website: https://www.irem.uzh.ch/en.html

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PD Dr. med. Petra Schweinhardt
Integrative Spinal Research Group, Department of Chiropractic Medicine, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich
petra.schweinhardt@balgrist.ch

Research Focus: Albeit nociception and pain are closely linked, there is no 1:1 relationship because the central nervous system hugely modulates nociceptive processing in a facilitatory as well as an inhibitory way. Our research focuses on how the CNS, in particular the brain, modulates nociception and how an altered balance between facilitation and inhibition contributes to chronic pain in patients. We use brain imaging methods (magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy) and psychophysical techniques to understand cerebral processes resulting in augmented nociceptive processing. We specifically investigate how contextual threat cues lead to sensitization along the neuraxis, thereby contributing to chronic pain.  

Keywords: pain modulation, threat, MRI, MRS
Topics: Sensory Systems, Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications: PubMed
Webpage: https://www.balgrist.ch
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PD Dr. Maryam Seif
Spinal Cord Injury Center, Neuroimaging Group, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich
maryam.seif@balgrist.ch

Research Focus: Our vision is to develop and apply neuroimaging biomarkers in human CNS following spinal cord injury (SCI) to better understand the SCI-induced neurodegeneration and predict the functional outcome. We use novel quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (qMRI) in the brain and spinal cord.  qMRI is expected to provide sensitive biomarkers of (micro-) structural changes of CNS due to trauma or neurodegeneration. Neuroimaging biomarkers hold promises to improve clinical trial design and efficiency through better SCI patient stratification.

Keywords: quantitative MRI, neuroimaging biomarker, spinal cord injury
Topic: Biomedical Technology and Disorders of the Nervous System
Webpage: https://www.sci-research.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. Erich Seifritz
Director, Dept of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics and Center for Psychiatric Research, University Hospital of Psychiatry, Zurich
erich.seifritz@bli.uzh.ch

Topic: Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications: PubMed
Website: https://www.pukzh.ch
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PD Dr. Jae Hoon Sim
Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Zurich
jaehoon.sim@usz.ch

Research Focus: We have performed both basic science and clinical researches on middle-ear mechanics and middle-ear surgeries. The researches on the middle mechanics have been focused on anatomical characteristics of middle ears in mammals, sound transmission through the middle ear, protective and adaptive functions of the human middle ear whereas the researches on middle-ear surgeries explore stability and reliability of middle-ear implants, assessment of expected surgical outcomes, optimization of prostheses and surgical conditions for the best performance, and surgical flexibility under anatomical variation across subjects.
Our team has established and used novel and unique techniques to perform the researches. The methodological approaches include 1) measurements of quasi-static and vibrational motions of the middle-ear ossicular chain and protheses in 3D space, 2) micro-imaging of the middle-ear structures, and 3) development of comprehensive biomechanical models of the intact and surgically-reconstructed middle ears.

Keywords: middle-ear mechanics, middle-ear reconstruction
Topics: Sensory Systems, Biomedical Technology and Imaging
Publications: PubMed
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Prof. Dr. Lukas Sommer
Institute of Anatomy, Division of Stem Cell Biology, University of Zurich
lukas.sommer@anatom.uzh.ch

Research Focus: Using genetic approaches in mouse model systems combined with cell biological assays, we are investigating how self-renewal and lineage-specific differentiation are controlled in vertebrate stem cells. Our favourite research topic are neural crest stem cells, which have a very broad developmental potential and give rise to multiple tissues in our body, including most of the peripheral nervous system, craniofacial bone and cartilage, smooth muscle in the outflow tract of the heart, and melanocytes in the skin. Our research aims to identify mechanisms underlying neural crest stem cell development associated with congenital diseases, tissue regeneration, and tumor formation.

Keywords: stem cells, embryonic development, developmental disorders, cancer
Topic: Development; Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience
Publications: PubMed
Website: https://www.anatomy.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. Hans H. Stassen
Institute for Response Genetics, Psychiatric University Hospital (KPPP), University of Zurich
k454910@bli.uzh.ch

Research Focus: Today, the question of predicting treatment response in the individual patient is not answerable for any of the currently available antipsychotics and antidepressants. In tandem with the benefits of these medications are significant risks associated with their use. This is particularly true for polypharmacy approaches where patients receive combinations of various drugs. Our research focus lies on “objective” prediction methods for the individual patient that avoid (1) unnecessarily long treatments with ineffective drugs; and (2) acute side effects that are quite uncomfortable for patients and compromise compliance with otherwise beneficial treatments. Another focus lies on the early detection of insufficient coping behavior under chronic stress which may raise blood pressure, increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, suppress the immune system, and increase the vulnerability to psychiatric disorders, such as anxiety, depression, or schizophrenia.

Keywords: Antidepressants, antipsychotics, polypharmacy, unwanted side effects, inflammatory response system, prediction of treatment response, early detection and prevention, stress, coping behavior

Topic: Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications: PubMed
Websites: http://www.bli.uzh.ch                  http://ifma-health.com
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Prof. Dr. Angelika Steger
Institute of Theoretical Computer Science, ETH Zurich
steger@inf.ethz.ch

Publications: pubmed
Website: https://inf.ethz.ch/people/person-detail.steger.html
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Prof. Dr. Klaas E. Stephan
Translational Neuromodeling Unit (TNU), Institute for Biomedical Engineering, UZH / ETH
stephan@biomed.ee.ethz.ch

Topic: Computation and Modeling
Website: http://www.translationalneuromodeling.org
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Prof. Dr. Esther Stoeckli
Department of Molecular Life Sciences, University of Zurich
esther.stoeckli@mls.uzh.ch

Research Focus: Correct wiring of the nervous system is key to its function. Many neurodevelopmental disorders, such as intellectual disability or autism, are a consequence of aberrant formation of neural networks. Our research focuses on the characterization of molecular mechanisms underlying the formation of neural circuits in health and disease using mouse and chicken embryos as model organisms. We use mainly in vivo approaches to understand the regulation of axonal behavior at intermediate targets or along their trajectories to final targets.

Keywords: axon guidance, choice points, disease genes, spinal cord
Topics: Development and Regeneration, Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience, Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications: PubMed
Website: https://www.mls.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. Dominik Straumann
Dept of Neurology, University Hospital Zurich
dominik@neurol.uzh.ch

Topic: Sensory Systems
Websites: https://www.usz.ch/en/department/neurology
http://www.vertigocenter.ch
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Prof. Dr. Ueli Suter
Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, Department of Biology, ETH Zürich
usuter@biol.ethz.ch

Research Focus: Neuron-Glia Interactions & Myelination in Development, Plasticity & Disease

Keywords: Myelin, plasticity, regeneration, repair, neuropathy, multiple sclerosis
Topic: Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience
Publications: http://publicationslist.org/ueli.suter
Website: http://www.mhs.biol.ethz.ch
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PD Dr. Christian Tackenberg
Institute for Regenerative Medicine (IREM), University of Zürich
christian.tackenberg@irem.uzh.ch

Research Focus: We use induced pluripotent stem cells, iPSCs, for modelling and understanding human brain diseases as well as for regenerative therapies with a focus on Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) and stroke, respectively.
AD is the most common type of dementia with the apolipoprotein E4 (APOE4) allele as major genetic risk factor. Using APOE isogenic iPSCs that differ in their APOE allele, we aim to uncover the underlying mechanisms of APOE4-mediated metabolic dysfunctions in differentiated human cortical neurons and astrocytes.
Stroke causes a permanent disability to five million people each year. This is largely due to the lack of effective medical treatment that promotes long-term recovery. Therefore, we are developing a next-generation regenerative therapy for stroke based on transplantation of xeno-free iPSC-derived neural progenitor cells.

Keywords: induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), neurons, astrocytes, neural progenitor cells (NPCs), neurodegenerative diseases, regenerative medicine, Alzheimer’s Disease, stroke
Topics: Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications: PubMedGoogle ScholarORCID
Website: www.irem.uzh.ch/Tackenberg
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Prof. Dr. Philippe Tobler
Department of Economics, University of Zurich
phil.tobler@econ.uzh.ch

Research Focus: Decisions pervade our daily lifes and we often base them on learned value. We investigate the neural mechanisms underlying value-based decision making and learning in social and non-social contexts. For example, we investigate how the brain processes constituents of economic value, such as risk and effort, or we ask whether social learning mechanisms differ from individual learning mechanisms. Our studies mainly employ behavioral methods as well as functional magnetic resonance imaging.

Keywords: Neuroeconomics, reward, punishment, salience, risk
Topic: Cognitive Neuroscience, Neural Basis of Behavior
Publications: PubMed
Website: http://www.econ.uzh.ch
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PD Dr. sc. nat. Valerie Treyer
Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich and Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Zurich
valerie.treyer@usz.ch

Research Focus: My focus on a better understanding of physiological processes in the early phase of Alzheimer’s disease pathology development. One obstacle in this research is the heterogeneity in the early development of Alzheimer’s disease. I am exploring lifestyle and sex as key drivers of pathology and cognitive variability but also with blood-based and multimodal imaging biomarkers and immune reactions to get an idea of how the body reacts to silently growing pathology.
Using Positron emission tomography I have assessed with colleagues various psychiatric diseases but also functional assessments with cognitive tests to reveal underlying networks and receptor distributions. Within neuroscience, my current and upcoming projects will focus on the different pathophysiological processes related to neurodegeneration and aging - to develop methods that allow measuring them in-vivo to relate them with other biomarkers and lifestyle markers, and to follow them over time with the eventual goal to develop personalized and high precision therapeutic approaches.
Also outside neuroscience, my focus will stay on translation of technologies to clinical applications but also on translation of my knowledge gained on my neuroscience projects into other medical fields and its translation back into neuroscience. The link between CNS to the cardiovascular system but also oncology is an important link not only considering the sharing of modifiable risk and protective factors but also other shared physiological processes not limited to immunology and inflammation.

Keywords: molecular imaging, functional neuroimaging, PET/MR imaging, clinical trials, neurodegeneration, multimodal brain imaging, aging, new PET Tracer, Alzheimer’s disease, Gender Medicine, Menopause, AD plasma biomarkers, T cells, TEMRA cells, adaptive immune cells, immunophenotyping
Topic: Cognitive Neuroscience, Biomedical Technology
Publications: PubMed https://orcid.org
Websites: https://www.usz.ch http://www.irem.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. Huub van Hedel
Head of the Pediatric Rehab Research Department, Rehabilitation Center for Children and Adolescents, University Children’s Hospital Zurich, Affoltern am Albis
hubertus.vanhedel@kispi.uzh.ch

Research Focus: The neurorehabilitative treatment of upper and lower extremity functions and activities in children and youths with neurological disorders presents a high challenge as the developmental status interferes with neurological, functional, cognitive, and motivational aspects. As evidence-based guidelines for assessment and treatment are scarce, our main aim is to improve the rehabilitation process of children and youths. We have three main directions for research: (i) Develop, refine, and psychometrically evaluate (clinical) assessments, including technology-based ones. (ii) Develop and assess rehabilitative interventions, with an emphasis on rehabilitation technologies and exergames. (iii) Understand how the brain reorganizes during neurorehabilitation (e.g. with EEG, fNIRS or MRI).

Keywords: pediatric, rehabilitation technology, psychometric studies, effectiveness, brain reorganisation
Topic: Disorders of the Nervous Systems, Motor Systems
Publications: PubMed
Website: http://www.kispi.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. med. Franz X. Vollenweider
University Hospital of Psychiatry Zurich, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics
Neuropsychopharmacology and Brain Imaging Unit & Heffter Research Center Zürich
vollen@bli.uzh.ch

Research Focus: Our goal is to identify brain mechanisms underlying the sense of self, visual perception, social cognition and emotional processes in normal waking states and the dysfunctions of these processes in psychiatric disorders. Multiple approaches including measures of experimental psychology, information processing (e.g. PPI, p50, MMN), and brain imaging techniques (e.g. PET, fMRI, MRS) are used to identify neurocognitive markers of these functions, and to unravel predictors for novel treatment approaches. In addition, translational drug models of psychopathology (e.g. ketamine, psilocybin) are used to further elucidate the role of the glutamate and serotonin systems in psychotic symptom formation, cognition, and emotion regulation. To bridge the gap between preclinical and clinical research, we also aim further at developing new translational models to investigate clinically relevant drug effects in healthy human subjects rather than patients.

Keywords: Psychopathology, Cognitive Neuroscience, Psychopharmacology, Models of psychoses, Emotion processing, glutamate, serotonin, PPI, p50, MMN, EEG-ERP, PET, fMRI, MRS
Topic: Sensory Systems, Cognitive Neuroscience
Publications: PubMed
Website: https://www.dapp.uzh.ch
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Dr. Wolfger von der Behrens
Institute of Neuroinformatics, University and ETH Zurich
wolfger@ini.uzh.ch

Research Focus: The central question of our research is how the nervous system adapts dynamically to the sensory environment and input on the basis of stimulus features, probability and regularity and vice-versa how this adaptation shapes perception. The model for answering these questions is the rodent primary sensory cortex with a particular focus on the neuronal representation of deviating stimuli. Deviating stimuli are of interest as they usually have a high saliency and therefore are potent trigger for reallocating the attentional focus. Neuronal activity signalling deviant stimuli is well described in human EEG recordings. Such a mismatch negativity wave in the EEG (‘MMN’) is a robust and most-likely hard-wired phenomenon. However, the underlying neuronal circuitry is unknown. In order to dissemble this circuitry we employ different behavioural and in-vivo physiological methods such as high-density single-neuron recordings and optogenetics. Additionally, these deviant-detecting circuits are disturbed in a range of neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia. Therefore, we are interested in modelling these pathologies as well due to their close and intricate relationship with the deviance detection mechanisms.

Keywords: Sensory decision making, deviance detection & predictive coding, rodents, optogenetics, multi-channel electrophysiology, behaviour, auditory and somatosensory system
Topic: Sensory systems
Publications: Google Scholar
Website: https://www.ini.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. Janos Vörös
Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioelectronics, University and ETH Zurich
janos.voros@biomed.ee.ethz.ch

Topic: Biomedical Technology and Imaging
Website: http://www.lbb.ethz.ch
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Prof. Dr. Susanne Walitza, KJPD
susanne.walitza@kjpdzh.ch

Topic: Disorders of the Nervous System
Website: https://www.pukzh.ch/
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Prof. Dr. Bruno Weber
Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich
bweber@pharma.uzh.ch

Research Focus: Our group uses a wide range of imaging tools to study the cell-to-cell communication pathways involved in energy metabolism and information processing in cerebral cortex. Furthermore, we are working on dissecting the interaction of neurons and astrocytes with the vascular system, which is responsible for maintaining adequate delivery of oxygen and energy substrates to the brain. As well as studying these systems, the development of imaging systems for in vivo research is an additional research focus of the group.

Keywords: Brain energy metabolism, glia, astrocyte-neuron-interaction, lactate
Topics: Biomedical Technology and Imaging, Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience
Publications: http://www.pharma.uzh.ch
Website: http://www.pharma.uzh.ch
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PD Dr. Konrad Weber
Neurology and Ophtalmology, University Hospital Zurich
konrad.weber@usz.ch

Topic: Sensory Systems
Website: http://www.vertigocenter.ch
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Dr. Ulrike Weber-Stadlbauer
Institute for Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich
Ulrike.weber@uzh.ch

Research Focus:  My research focuses upon the question of how early-life environmental adversities, such as prenatal infection or nutritional imbalances, can shape the risk for neurodevelopmental abnormalities. One of my current research lines explores non-genetic transgenerational inheritance of neuronal and behavioral abnormalities relevant to major neuropsychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia and autism. More specifically, I investigate these processes in a translational mouse model of maternal gestational infection, which is an established environmental risk factor of schizophrenia and autism, thereby focusing on epigenetic alterations as candidate mechanisms. My research combines behavioral and cognitive tests, immunological assays, neuroanatomical techniques, transcriptomics and epigenomics. With our research we want to provide starting points for translational initiatives aiming at preventing the possible transmission of neuropsychiatric disease risk across generations.

Keywords: Prenatal Infection, Transgenerational Inheritance, Epigenetics, Neurodevelopment, Behavior, Cognition, Schizophrenia, Autism
Topic: Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications:publons
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Prof. Dr. Susanne Wegener
Dept. of Neurology, University Hospital Zurich
Susanne.Wegener@usz.ch

Research Focus: Thrombolysis is an effective treatment in acute ischemic stroke. However, the benefit of therapy has to be weighed against the risks, particularly intracerebral hemorrhage. Reasons for a different outcome in stroke may be an individual vulnerability/resistance to ischemia or vascular factors (type of occlusion/collaterals). Using rodent stroke models (MCAO/thrombin injection) and multimodal imaging we are studying mechanisms underlying ischemia tolerance and vascular adaptations to ischemia. Furthermore, we are interested in anatomical and functional correlates of cognitive impairment after MCA-territory stroke (sensorimotor and cognitive testing and Manganese-enhanced MRI). In a clinical project based on the analysis of patient imaging data, we plan to characterize novel imaging based predictors of therapeutic success in stroke.
Our goal is a continuing transfer of knowledge between clinical and experimental stroke research.

Keywords: ischemic stroke, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Middle cerebral artery occlusion, preconditioning, post-stroke cognitive impairment, cerebral blood flow
Topic: Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications: PubMed
Websites: https://www.usz.ch https://www.stroke.uzh.ch
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Dr. med. Dr. sc. nat. Tobias Weiss
Department of Neurology, University Hospital and University of Zurich
tobias.weiss@usz.ch

Research Focus: Malignant brain tumors are devastating diseases with a poor prognosis and an urgent need for better therapies. We are developing novel therapeutic approaches against primary brain tumors and brain metastasis, with a focus on novel cancer immunotherapies. For this, we use state-of-the-art disease models including cell lines, orthotopic fully immunocompetent mouse models and patient samples. In collaboration with groups at the University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, we apply cutting-edge methods in genomics, proteomics and imaging to gain a deep mechanistical understanding of these diseases. The goal of our research is the translational of novel treatment strategies to patients.
Keywords: Brain Tumors, Immunotherapy, drug-development, multi-omics
Topic: Disorders of the Nervous System, Neuroimmunology
Publications: PubMed Google Scholar
Website: https://www.usz.ch
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Prof. Dr. med. Michael Weller
Department of Neurology, University Hospital and University of Zurich
michael.weller@usz.ch

Research Focus: Despite multimodal treatment of surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy, the prognosis for patients with malignant brain tumors, notably glioblastoma, remains poor. To design novel treatment approaches, we study the microenvironment of brain tumors and explore how invasiveness and angiogenesis in brain tumors are regulated by the hosts`s brain. Further, our immunotherapy projects aim at defining the basis for a novel approaches targeting glioma-initiating cells with stem cell properties, commonly named glioma stem cells. These glioma stem cells are isolated from surgically removed tumor material and characterized for possible immunogenic properties with a focus on cell surface markers for immune recognition, with the hope to develop novel approaches of tumor stem cell-specific vaccination against brain tumors.

Keywords: Glioblastoma, brain tumor, stem cells, immunology
Topic: Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications: PubMed
Website: https://www.usz.ch/en/team/michael-weller-2/
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Prof. Dr. Nicole Wenderoth
Neural Control of Movement Lab, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich
nicole.wenderoth@hest.ethz.ch

Research Focus: We develop non-invasive interfaces to modulate brain function. To do so we use different medical imaging and neurophysiological techniques to understand the computational principles guiding behavior as well as its adaptation to the constraints and rewards present in the environment. We are interested in a broad range of behavioral processes including sensorimotor control and learning, spatial navigation, and how different rewards influence choices and the willingness to invest effort.  Once we understand the task-specific neural interactions across different brain regions we develop interventions that tap into these processes to modulate brain activity and behavior. Tools we use are non-invasive magnetic or electric brain stimulation as well as human-machine interfaces.  We pursue a translational approach applying our methods in animal models, healthy human volunteers and patients (stroke, cerebral palsy, Autism).

Keywords: Sensorimotor Control, Memory, Effort, Theory-of-Mind, Stroke, Cerebral Palsy, Autism, non-invasive brain stimulation, medical imaging
Topic: Motor Systems
Publications: PubMed
Website: http://www.ncm.hest.ethz.ch
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Dr. Hans-Georg Wirsching
Department of Neurology, University Hospital and University of Zurich
hans-georg.wirsching@usz.ch

Research Focus: Glioblastoma is an invariably fatal disease characterized by an extensively immunosuppressed microenvironment. The RCAS/tv-a gene transfer system has been utilized to engineer glioblastoma models that recapitulate the genomic aberrations that drive human glioblastoma. In situ genetic transformation of neuroglial stem- and progenitor cells induces mouse brain tumors that exhibit all histological features of human glioblastoma. These tumors develop from the own cells of immune competent mice and recapitulate the molecular and immunologic profiles of human glioblastoma, thus circumventing limitations of models that rely on the transplantation of in vitro cultured cells. We are utilizing these models for pre-clinical drug development including immunotherapy approaches and for genetic studies of oncogenesis.

Keywords: glioblastoma, pre-clinical drug development, immunotherapy
Topic: Disorders of the Nervous System
Publications: PubMed
Website: https://www.usz.ch/en/team/hans-georg-wirsching/
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Prof. Dr. Martin Wolf
Biomedical Optics Research Laboratory (BORL), Dept. of Neonatology, University Hopital Zurich
martin.wolf@usz.ch

Research Focus: BORL focuses on the development of diagnostic tools using light and their research or clinical application. The wide field of expertise and research includes quantitative near-infrared spectrophotometry (NIRS) and imaging (NIRI), i.e. non-invasive, continuous, techniques at the bedside, which use light to quantify and image hemoglobin concentration and oxygenation of tissue. We develop NIRS instrumentation (sensors, electronics, spectrometers, chip design), software (drivers, graphic user interfaces, and post-processing) and algorithms (signal analysis, physiological parameter extraction). BORL successfully invented, developed and clinically applied optical technology to study brain, muscle, cervix, breast oxygenation, perfusion and function. One major focus is the assessment of t brain function, perfusion and oxygenation in healthy subjects and patients in the hospital during clinical studies.

Keywords: Near-infrared spectrophotometry (NIRS), Near-infrared imaging (NIRI), cerebral oxygenation
Topic: Biomedical Technology and Imaging
Publications: http://www.bmpn.ch
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Prof. Dr. David P. Wolfer
Institute of Anatomy, University of Zurich;
Institute of Human Movement Sciences and Sport, ETH Zurich
david.wolfer@anatomy.uzh.ch

Research focus: We investigate the neural basis of cognitive function in the normal and diseased brain using mouse models. Behavioral studies are combined with histological visualization and quantification of neuronal activity, stereotactic lesions, neuropharmacology, and targeted mutations. We also study the influence of normal genetic variation, environment and life style on cognitive function and the underlying brain circuitry. We are developing new approaches to assess cognitive functions of mice more efficiently and reliably in a fully automated social home cage setting (IntelliCage).

Keywords: behavioral neuroscience, cognitive neuroscience, high throughput behavioral phenotyping
Topic: Neural Basis of behavior, Cognitive Neuroscience
Publications: http://www.dpwolfer.ch
Website: https://ibws.ethz.ch/the-institute/anat-lab.html
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Prof. Dr. Bernd Wollscheid
Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Institute of Molecular Biology, ETH Zürich
wbernd@ethz.ch

Research Focus: The Wollscheid laboratory is focusing on biomedical research bridging the gap in understanding the genotype to phenotype transition via detailed analysis of the proteotype. In order to gain a systems biology understanding of the surfaceome as a cellular signaling gateway we develop and apply chemoproteomic technologies which ultimately enable the quantitative assessment of dynamic protein-protein interactions towards the molecular understanding signaling processes.

Keywords: Chemical & Systems Biology, Cellular Signaling, BioMedical Proteomics
Topic: Biomedical Technology and Imaging
Publications: Google Scholar
Website: http://wlab.ethz.ch/wollscheidlab
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Prof. Dr. Mehmet Fatih Yanik
High-throughput Neurotechnology Laboratory, Institute for Biomedical Engineering,  ETH Zurich
yanik@ethz.ch

Topic: Biomedical Technology
Website: https://ee.ethz.ch/
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Prof. Dr. Hanns Ulrich Zeilhofer
Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zürich, and Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, ETH Zürich
zeilhofer@pharma.uzh.ch

Research Focus: The spinal dorsal horn serves a pivotal role as the first site of cellular and synaptic integration of somatosensory information. It plays a key role in diseases such as chronic pain and itch. Our group focuses on the organization and function of dorsal horn neuronal circuits and their plasticity in different pathologies. We use a variety of neuronal tracing techniques to analyse the integration of dorsal horn neurons into neuronal circuits in mice and combine virus-based and genetic tools to manipulate specific subpopulations of dorsal horn neurons in vivo. Behavioral test and in vivo 2-photon imaging and electrophysiology are used to study the function of neurons and circuits under physiological conditions and in chronic pain and itch states.  

Keywords: Spinal cord, interneurons, circuits, pain
Topics: Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience, Disorders of the Nervous Systems, Neural Basis of Behavior, Sensory Systems
Publications: PubMed
Website: http://www.pharma.uzh.ch
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Prof. Dr. Xiaomin Zhang
Laboratory of Neural Circuit Dynamics, Brain Research Institute, University of Zurich
zhang@hifo.uzh.ch

Research Focus: Episodic memory enables us to remember daily life events that occurred at particular times and places. However, newly encoded episodic memories are typically fragile due to constant interference with ongoing experiences and therefore require consolidation to form long-lasting memories. Our goal is to understand the cellular and circuitry mechanisms underlying episodic memory consolidation in healthy and Alzheimer’s disease animal models. Taking advantage of in vivo electrophysiological recordings and advanced optical tools, we will investigate the single-neuron dynamics, neuronal population coding properties, and their relations to neuromodulation during spatial memory consolidation. Our long-term goal is to shed insight into neuronal mechanisms of episodic memory impairment, a hallmark of early-onset Alzheimer’s Disease, and test new strategies to alleviate impaired episodic memory formation.

Keywords: episodic memory formation, memory consolidation, the hippocampus, neuromodulation
Topic: Neural Basis of Behavior
Publications: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0256-6529
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