Objective
Understanding how memory shapes behaviour is a central goal in neuroscience. When we face ambiguous or conflicting cues, should we rely on what is familiar, or explore what is new? In such moments, memory is not simply recalled but used strategically. Rather than functioning as a passive archive, episodic memory operates as a dynamic internal model. Yet despite advances in uncovering mechanisms of encoding and retrieval, we still lack an explanation for how the brain decides which memory to use and when.
In DYNAMEM, we propose a reframing: that memory is governed by internal policies, defined as flexible circuit-dependent strategies that arbitrate between competing representations such as familiarity and novelty. Our preliminary data suggest that the selection and deployment of memory content is embedded within specific hippocampal to subiculum subcircuits, which broadcast brain-wide to shape how animals explore the world. To test this, we introduce a new behavioural framework designed to reveal latent memory-use strategies on the fly. We will combine unique enhancer-driven genetic targeting, dual-colour all-optical imaging, and real-time closed-loop control to (1) uncover how deep and superficial CA1 subcircuits bias policy selection; (2) trace how their outputs are interpreted by subicular cell types; and (3) dynamically infer and manipulate memory-use states as behaviour unfolds.
DYNAMEM moves beyond classical recall to establish a new paradigm: memory as active policy. By connecting internal circuit states to curiosity-driven exploration, it opens a new frontier in the neuroscience of flexible cognition.
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Keywords
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.1 - European Research Council (ERC)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
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Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-ERC - HORIZON ERC Grants
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Call for proposal
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Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) ERC-2025-ADG
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
28006 Madrid
Spain
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