Max-Planck-Institut für biologische Kybernetik: Understanding thought processes

Understanding thought processes in the brain is the aim of the fundamental research conducted at the Tübingen-based Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics, founded in 1968. Scientists from a range of departments and research groups are investigating this topic with var­­ious research methods and approaches.

The focus of the High-Field Magnetic Res­­onance Department includes magnetic­resonance tomography under very high-­strength magnetic fields and the devel­­­­op­ment of new contrast media that can make brain activity visible. The scientists in the Physiology of Cognitive Processes Department are researching which areas of the brain translate sensory perceptions, how they are reflected in neuronal activity, and how this process can change through learning. In the Human Percep­tion, Cognition and Action Department, the focus is on modeling how humans process information. This includes, for example, questions of object and facial recognition, social interaction, and dealing with new environments. In addition, a completely new type of simulator for investigating novel human-machine interfaces in the field of vehicle and aircraft control has been developed.