Theoretical neuroscience is the quantitative study of neurobiological systems using the tools of information theory, signal processing, control theory, machine learning, and dynamic systems theory. It is concerned with issues of neural representation, neural architecture, learning, nonlinear systems, and complexity as they relate to understanding the uniquely flexible and effective behaviours of humans and animals.

At the University of Waterloo, we have created the Centre for Theoretical Neuroscience (CTN) to concentrate interfaculty expertise into an officially recognized research strength of the University. The Centre is currently setting up a graduate program, colloquia and workshops as well as supporting the research described in the affiliated lab webpages. Research opportunities at the Centre are usually arranged via the member labs.

For more information on affiliated labs' research, please see the lab descriptions.

Brain Day 2023 Videos On-line

The videos from Brain Day 2023 are now available on line at our youtube channel. Hope you enjoy.

CTN Masters Student Graduate Sugandha Sharma Appears on Generally Intelligent Podcast

Sugandha Sharma, masters student graduate of the University of Waterloo's CTN, discusses her research and time in the laboratory of CTN Founding Director Chris Eliasmith as well as her current PhD research at MIT on the Generally Intelligent Podcast. Give it a listen.

Sue Ann Campbell Presents at International Conference on Mathematical Neurosci 2022

Sue Ann Campbell (Applied Math/CTN core member) recently presented "Modulation of Synchronization by a Slowly Varying Current"  in July 2022 at the International Conference on Mathematical Neuroscience; Watch it on YouTubesue ann campbell presentation image of spikes

CTN Research Day 2023 Oct 17 16:30 - 19:00 QNC 0101

The Centre for Theoretical Neuroscience will be hosting its second Research Day. This will be a chance to start the new academic year by getting re-acquainted with each other and the diversity of research conducted by CTN core and affiliate faculty. The format will be to have a number of CTN faculty share short overviews of their lab's and projects (16:30-17:30) and then, following a short coffee break (17:30-18:00), hear from a dozen current graduate students and post-docs giving short three minute talks on an aspect of their current research (18:00-19:00).

Bots and Beasts. New book by CTN Founding Member Paul Thagard

Paul Thagard, philosopher, cognitive scientist, Killam prize winner, and founding CTN member has a new book out: Bots and Beasts. bots and beasts book cover