Research

THE PROBLEM

Decisions involve choosing an action based on evidence, but many real-world problems have multiple solutions, appearing to necessitate a higher order decision of “how to decide”.  Whereas most animals are capable of coping with volatile environments by switching between different decision strategies, we are only beginning to unravel the neural circuit dynamics and computations governing the emergence, selection and change of decision strategies. 

Investigating how the brain imagines multiple solutions to solving problems and switches between them is essential to understand adaptive behavior and could also inform us about more complex cognitive processes involving flexibility, such as problem solving, abstract reasoning, and creative thinking. 

THE APPROACH

To understand the distributed neural circuits and mechanisms that support flexible reasoning, we measure and manipulate neurons in interconnected cortical and subcortical areas while mice make complex decisions in ethologically relevant contexts. Specifically, we leverage recent progress made in large-scale recording technologies paired with targeted cell-specific temporal control of neural activity to characterize how key regions of the mouse brain dynamically interact during decision-making. We collaborate with theoreticians to test normative theories against large-scale neural recordings and to develop innovative methods for data analysis. 

CURRENT PROJECTS

Neural computations and dynamics of flexible behavior 

(Simons Foundation - $600,000)

This project investigates how the brain’s parallel processing creates a “reservoir” of potential solutions, enabling rapid cognitive flexibility. Using virtual reality and large-scale neural recordings in mice, our goal is to understand how this reservoir facilitates adaptation to changing conditions during foraging. This research aims to bridge the gap between neural circuit dynamics and normative theories of decision-making, ultimately providing insights into the mechanisms of flexible behavior.

Understanding diversity in decision strategy: from neural circuits to behavior 

(ERC StG - 2,000,000€)

This project explores the neural underpinnings of diverse decision-making strategies, focusing on both intra-individual flexibility and inter-individual differences ('personality'). We hypothesize that specific strategies are encoded by fundamental units of neural activity – likely specific spatio-temporal patterns. We will identify these patterns using electrophysiology and two-photon imaging in mice performing a foraging task. We will then use cutting-edge, cell-specific holographic stimulation to 'replay' these identified strategy-encoding patterns, directly probing their functional role. This precise control will allow us to understand how the brain flexibly switches strategies (intra-individual diversity) and how variations in these fundamental neural units explain stable behavioral biases across individuals (inter-individual diversity). This innovative approach provides a mechanistic understanding of how behavioral diversity emerges.

FUNDING

Our research is made possible through the generous support from several funding sources.