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Understanding decision making by linking brain and behaviour

Objective

Why do some people make decisions impulsively while others are more cautious? The answer may lie in individual differences in synaptic connectivity strengths within the underlying brain network. Previous work has found correlations between aspects of the decision making process and BOLD or electrophysiological responses. However, a proper mechanistic and biological explanation is still missing. This is nevertheless crucial for understanding how neurotransmitter systems influence behaviour and lead to impulse control disorders, addiction, or eating disorders. To reach this aim, I propose to combine state-of-the-art cognitive models with likewise state-of-the-art models of neural responses. My ‘BrainBehaviour model’ will link cognitive factors that influence behaviour with synaptic connectivity patterns that give rise to neuroimaging findings.
Using this model, I will first analyse high-resolution (7T) fMRI data of subjects performing a stop-signal task. I will then turn to a novel data set comprising local field potential recordings obtained from deep brain stimulation electrodes implanted in the subthalamic nucleus for treatment of Parkinson’s disease, in combination with simultaneous MEG. After model inversion, the estimated parameters will be used to test specific hypotheses on the role of the hyperdirect, indirect, and direct pathways in movement inhibition.
The project is not only at the forefront of cognitive and computational neuroscience but it also offers invaluable training experiences, including the opportunity to work with high-tech imaging data (7T fMRI), mastering dynamic causal modelling, learning how to apply advanced cognitive models, and a good number of transferable skills like teaching and student supervision. The latter will result in an official teaching certificate that is compulsory for all university lecturers in the Netherlands. Granting this proposal will be a vital step for progressing my career beyond the current postdoctoral level.

Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)

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Programme(s)

Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.

Topic(s)

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.

MSCA-IF-EF-ST - Standard EF

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Call for proposal

Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.

(opens in new window) H2020-MSCA-IF-2017

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Coordinator

UNIVERSITEIT VAN AMSTERDAM
Net EU contribution

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.

€ 165 598,80
Total cost

The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.

€ 165 598,80
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