Neuroscience

Advancing Neuroscience Research at Michigan Medicine

Unlocking the complexities of the brain and reducing the impact of brain-related illnesses.

 Drs. Feldman and Hayes looking at a scan of a brain on a computer

The brain regulates the body’s organ systems and helps us interact with the world. Understanding how the brain coordinates signals from inside and outside of the body and drives our health and behavior is the focus of Michigan Medicine’s world-renowned neuroscientists.

Our researchers are quickly advancing knowledge within the field, from understanding diseases of the brain, such as cancer, epilepsy and depression arise to unraveling the brain’s immense complexity.
Dr. Hastins and a lab member looking at a computer in the lab
Great Minds, Greater Discoveries

Michelle Hastings, PhD

Discover how Dr. Hastings is investing in a simple but powerful way to make medicines.

Learn more about Dr. Hastings' work

Neuroscience Researchers

Meet the Experts

Michigan Medicine neuroscience researchers are at the forefront of groundbreaking discoveries that shape the understanding of the brain and nervous system.

See All Researchers

Centers & Institutes

 Explore Additional Research Centers
Three scientists in white lab coats examine a frosty container

ALS Center of Excellence

A world leader in the fight against amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), the ALS Center of Excellence at Michigan Medicine features a combination of renowned researchers, unrivaled facilities, and the partnership of a dedicated multidisciplinary clinic team.

Learn more about our research
doctor pointing to a brain scan

Michigan Neuroscience Institute

Our mission is to leverage advances across all fields of science and engineering to solve the mysteries of the brain, advance human health, and address society’s challenges.

Learn more about our research
Dr. Kevin Chen looking through a microscope in the lab

Neuronetwork For Emerging Therapies

We draw upon our expertise and our innovative collaborations, both within the University of Michigan and worldwide, to accelerate the pace of scientific discovery and support emerging therapies for neurological diseases.

Learn more about our research
Frankel IHBH Team

The Stanley and Judith Frankel Institute for Heart and Brain Health

The Stanley and Judith Frankel Institute for Heart and Brain Health (Frankel IHBH) brings together current and new U-M researchers to unravel the biological mechanisms that the heart and brain have in common, as well as how these organs signal to each other and impact clinical outcomes.

Learn more about our research
three woman at an event

Michigan Alzheimer's Disease Center

The Michigan Alzheimer's Disease Center (MADC) is committed to memory and aging research, patient care, education and wellness to support persons living with or caring for a loved one with dementia.

Learn more about our research

Featured News & Stories
e-bike handles on road close up
Health Lab

E-bikes are faster than ever. Are families prepared for the risks?

As e-bikes and e-scooters grow in popularity, Michigan Medicine experts are warning families that many riders and parents may not fully understand the speeds these devices can reach or the injuries that can follow when things go wrong.
 lights scattered all over blue screen connected
Health Lab

Studying neurons using neurons

Labs at the University of Michigan Medical School are exploring a new technology that leverages the biological capabilities of human neurons for artificial intelligence.
 A team of medical professionals in surgical attire performs a procedure in an operating room. They are surrounded by medical equipment, including a robotic arm and various monitors.
News Release

University of Michigan implants first-in-human Paradromics wireless brain-computer interface, designed to restore communication

Neurosurgeons at University of Michigan Health completed the first-in-human implantation of a Paradromics Inc., wireless brain-computer interface, or BCI, as part of a national clinical trial for patients with difficulty speaking.

Recent Podcast Episodes in Neuroscience
Health Lab Podcast in brackets with a background with a dark blue translucent layers over cells
Health Lab Podcast

Could preeclampsia become a thing of the past?

The findings position VGLL3 as a promising novel treatment target for the pregnancy-related condition.
 Health Lab Podcast in brackets with a background with a dark blue translucent layers over cells
Health Lab Podcast

Hospice Patients with Dementia Face Higher Risk from Certain Prescriptions

A study of those prescribed benzodiazepines or antipsychotics after hospice enrollment highlights two hospice policy issues.
 The Fundamentals Podcast Hero Card Final 1800 x 1350
The Fundamentals

Researching Psychedelics for Potential Therapeutic Use

Recently, interest in psychedelic research has seen a resurgence, strengthened by better designed and controlled clinical trials and the use of neuroimaging, examining psychedelics' potential therapeutic use for PTSD, addiction, anxiety, and depression. On today’s episode, we talk with Dr. George Mashour, professor of anesthesiology and pharmacology and founder of the Michigan Psychedelic Center about using rigorous scientific methods to unlock the mysteries of psychedelics and investigate their potential as therapeutics.