The Systems Neuroscience Institute was established in 2008 as the first of its kind in Taiwan, emphasizing studies of neural circuitry in various organisms. Systems neuroscience follows the pathways of information flow within the nervous system, attempts to characterize various levels of processing, and uses this information to help explain behavioral functions. Areas of study are concerned with how nerve cells behave when connected together to form neural networks. In particular, the investigators work to understand sensory and perceptual systems and motor control, and how expectations and motivational states influence these basic processes. The institute integrates biology and engineering to study how circuits control behaviors through the following research directions:

(1) to develop new photonic, electrical, engineering, genetic, and computational tools for brain research;
(2) to investigate information processing and transfer in brain circuits;
(3) to examine the neural basis for cognitive, motivational, sensory, and motor processes;
(4) to study molecular mechanisms of learning and memory; and
(5) to understand normal and degenerative brain circuits and develop therapeutic strategies.

Our educational goal is to cultivate knowledge of systems-based neuroscience research for biomedical sciences and industry. The institute is striving to conduct cutting edge research, integrate multiple disciplines of science and technology, and provide solid foundations for biology and medicine.