Thematic research areas

The LabEx CerCoG (Brain and Cognition) at Université Grenoble Alpes UGA) brings together an interdisciplinary community of researchers in neuroscience, cognition, clinical sciences, computer science, linguistics, physics, and engineering. 

Its objective: to better understand the human brain, its cognitive functions, and related disorders by combining fundamental research, modeling, technological innovation, and clinical applications.

Members' research focuses on three main areas, reinforced by cross-disciplinary initiatives that promote large-scale collaboration.

? Brain Research Area – from neurons to preclinical applications

This research focus explores the biological mechanisms of the brain at the molecular, cellular, and neuronal circuit levels, under both normal and pathological conditions. Objectives: to decipher brain dysfunctions, identify new therapeutic targets, and evaluate innovative approaches in diagnosis and treatment.

Main themes

• Neuronal functioning: study of neuronal connections, synaptic plasticity, and repair mechanisms after injury.
• Neural networks: analysis of the development, aging, and reorganization of neural circuits, using tools such as optogenetics, advanced imaging, or stimulation.
• Preclinical diagnosis: development of high-resolution tools to measure brain activity in animal models.
• Preclinical therapeutics: evaluation of innovative treatments (stroke, trauma, neurodevelopmental disorders) with a view to future clinical translation.

? Cognition Research Area: from the individual to the collective

This component focuses on the cerebral bases of cognitive functions (perception, language, memory, social interactions, etc.) through interdisciplinary approaches combining cognitive psychology, linguistics, neurosciences, computer modeling, and medical sciences.

Main themes:

• Perception and Action: perception-action coupling, human-machine interfaces, robotics.
• Language: study of linguistic mechanisms, language disorders, and vocal and gestural technologies.
• Memory and Executive Functions: exploration of memories (episodic, semantic, autobiographical) and their links with other cognitive functions.
• Cognition in Interaction: effects of human, technological, and social interactions on cognition.
• Social Cognition, Emotion, and Motivation: processing of information about the self and others, impact of social networks and emotions.

? Clinical Neurosciences Axis: from diagnosis to therapies

This area aims to improve understanding of neurological and psychiatric disorders, from diagnosis to treatment, by integrating cutting-edge technological tools. It is based on close collaboration between research laboratories and hospital departments at Grenoble Alpes University Hospital.

Main themes:

• Technological developments: AI for emergency care, biomarkers for early diagnosis, neuromodulation, neuroimaging, deep brain stimulation, or innovative therapies (microbeam radiation, infrared illumination).
• Rehabilitation and disability: cognitive prosthetics, neurofeedback, virtual reality, mindfulness meditation, psychoeducational programs, and evaluation of the socio-economic impact of brain disorders.