Connectomics and Neural Circuit Structure Lab (CONNCS Lab)

Our research focuses on understanding the fundamental principles of neural circuit structure that can predict the function through connectomics. CONNCS Lab (pronounced "connects" /kəˈnɛkts/) focuses on understanding the fundamental principles of neural circuit structure bridging the gap from genes to function through connectomics. Our goal is to simulate a purely circuit structure-based model to predict the function of the system. We expand this research through comparative studies to identify how the circuit structures differ in disease models with impaired functions or different developmental stages with stage-specific functions. By integrating spatial transcriptomics, we aim to discover molecular factors driving the differences in circuit structures, leading to novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Finally, we analyze diverse 3D image-based datasets—including electron microscopy, calcium imaging, and spatial transcriptomics—by developing state-of-the-art AI models to accelerate our neuroscience discoveries. Identifying the fundamental neural circuit structure that can explain consistent brain function through connectomics. Understanding how neural circuit structure is disrupted in impaired or abnormal brain function. Developing scalable AI methods to automate and accelerate the analysis of 3D biological datasets such as electron microscopy and spatial transcriptomics. Behavior emerges from the coordinated activity of neuronal populations, which in turn is governed by the brain's underlying wiring. Our lab leverages connectomics to uncover the principles of neural circuit structures that accurately predict neuronal function, leading to behavior. In one major line of research, we work to identify the specific neural circuit structures and motifs that drive structur