Panayiota Poirazi
Research Director
Work in my lab focuses on understanding how dendrites contribute to complex brain functions such as learning and memory. Dendrites, the thin processes that extend from the cell bodies of neurons, are equipped with non-linear conductances, providing neurons with enhanced processing, learning and storage capabilities. We develop and use computational models that simulate dendritic computations and their effects on cellular and network function across multiple brain areas. We also use in vivo behavioral and imaging techniques to probe the role of dendrites in behaving mice. Finally, we build brain-inspired algorithms that incorporate dendritic properties, aiming to advance machine learning and artificial intelligence.