From neural circuits to choices: multi-scale dynamics in decision making

Decision making emerges from neural processes that unfold across multiple temporal and spatial scales, from rapid sensory encoding and action selection to slower learning, belief updating, and strategy formation. Recent advances in systems and computational neuroscience have begun to reveal how these dynamics are implemented in neural circuits and how they interact to shape behavior.

This Satellite will bring together leading researchers using animal models to study decision making through a combination of behavior, large-scale neuronal recordings, targeted circuit manipulations, and computational modeling. Talks will highlight recent advances in identifying how neural population dynamics in cortical and subcortical circuits give rise to adaptive choice behavior. A strong emphasis will be placed on mechanistic interpretations that link circuit activity to behavior across timescales, from moment-to-moment action selection to longer-term learning and strategy formation.

By integrating experimental and theoretical approaches, the symposium aims to define current conceptual frameworks, identify unifying principles in the study of decision making, clarify how different timescales interact within and across brain circuits, and discuss key challenges for future research. The event will be of interest to systems neuroscientists, computational neuroscientists, and trainees seeking a circuit-level understanding of decision making grounded in causal experimentation.

FRCB-IDIBAPS. Center Esther Koplovitz

C/Rosselló 149-153 08036 Barcelona

Preliminary program

08:45 - 09:00: Registration
09:00 - 09:45: Talk 1
09:45 - 10:30: Talk 2
10:30 - 11:15: Talk 3

11:15 - 11:45: Coffee break

11:45 - 12:30: Talk 4
12:30 - 13:15: Talk 5

13:15 - 14:15: Lunch

14:15 - 15:00: Talk 6
15:00 - 15:45: Talk 7
15:45 - 16:30: Talk 8

16:30 - 17:00: Coffee break

17:00 - 17:45: Talk 9
17:45 - 18:30: Talk 10

Organizers:

Hernando M. Vergara

Jaime de la Rocha

Albert Compte