Thematic 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 goal: to better understand the human brain, its cognitive functions, and associated pathologies, 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 – From Neurons to Preclinical Applications

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

Main themes

• Neural function: study of neural 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, and 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 application.

? Cognition Track: From the Individual to the Collective

This section focuses on the neurological basis of cognitive functions (perception, language, memory, social interactions, etc.) through interdisciplinary approaches combining cognitive psychology, linguistics, neuroscience, computer modeling, and medical science.

Main topics:

• Perception and Action: perception-motion coupling, human-machine interfaces, robotics.
• Language: study of linguistic mechanisms, language disorders, and voice and gesture technologies.
• Memory and Executive Functions: exploration of memory (episodic, semantic, autobiographical) and its links with other cognitive functions.
• Interactive cognition: effects of human, technological, and social interactions on cognition.
• Social cognition, emotion, and motivation: processing information about oneself and others, impact of social networks and emotions.

? Clinical Neuroscience Track: From Diagnosis to Treatments

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 topics:

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