This thematic area researches the brain, cognition and behaviour, from molecules to humans and society. With the Donders Institute, Radboudumc and our extensive network – on campus between the faculties and with the Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics and internationally – we are among the world leaders in research into the brain, cognition and behaviour. We bring together insights from the humanities, behavioural and life sciences, AI and technology. Our ambition is to further strengthen our position in fundamental research and increase the societal value of our research through open platforms, citizen science and spin-offs. Through joint programmes with Radboudumc, we are accelerating the translation of discovery into intervention, including image-guided therapies, neuromodulation and brain-computer interfaces. New infrastructure, such as the ambitious 14 Tesla MRI that will generate ultra-refined imaging techniques, will accelerate research and expand our international network. We are integrating this into our education, including the launch of the BSc in Human Neuroscience in 2026 and the MSc in Neurotech in 2027.
Globally, pressure on mental health and cognitive resilience is increasing, while fundamental and applied research is opening up new possibilities. We are at a tipping point, moving from understanding to intervention and from perception to treatment. How can we use our knowledge of the brain, cognition, language and behaviour to make a real impact?
