prof. dr. E.J. Hermans (Erno)

The main research question that I address in my work is how our brain enables us to survive and learn to keep away from situations that threaten our physical or psychological well-being. Traditionally, this topic has been addressed in relative isolation at different levels of analysis, ranging from molecular and cellular to behavioral and clinical neurosciences. I attempt to bridge these fields through a systems-level analysis in humans in which I combine functional neuroimaging with endocrine measures, autonomic psychophysiology, pharmacological manipulations, genetics, and rigorous experimental behavioral paradigms. The ultimate goal of this effort is to advance understanding, treatment, and prevention of stress-related psychopathology.

• Development and lifelong plasticity

• Cognitive Affective Neuroscience