Divisions

Neuroscience

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Director

Flavia Valtorta

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Deputy Director

Carla Taveggia

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Our mission is to contribute to the unraveling of the inner workings of the human nervous system and mind and to find causes and treatments for neurological and psychiatric diseases. To accomplish this, we investigate the molecular and cellular mechanisms of neuronal and glial dysfunction and we engage in translational and clinical research projects. The impressive advances in our knowledge of the nervous system have made neuroscience one of the most active branches in modern biology and medicine and the integration between basic and clinical research is key to the success of our long-term goal: building on the knowledge generated by basic and clinical research to translate our discoveries into novel therapies for neurological and psychiatric disorders, some of humanity's most disabling disorders.

Organization

The Division of Neuroscience harbors more than 300 scientists organized in 25 basic research units and 15 clinical research units. Among these, those involved in translational medicine (12 basic research units and 6 clinical research units) have assembled into the the Institute of Experimental Neurology (INSPE). View all research units here.

All Clinical research activities are under the supervision of Professor Andrea Falini, the Clinical research coordinator for the Division.

To provide scientific, technical and social support for junior faculties recently recruited into the Division of Neuroscience or recently promoted group leaders, there is a dedicated Mentoring Program.

Members of the Division are also part of the faculty of Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, being affiliated to the Schools of Medicine, of Psychology or of Philosophy. Excellence in higher education is a priority for the Division of Neuroscience. For this reason, the Division is actively involved in the PhD programs of Molecular Medicine and of Cognitive Neuroscience, which offer positions for 3 years on a highly competitive basis.

Research

Scientists affiliated to the Division work together to investigate key and hot issues in neuroscience, with emphasis on the following areas: neurobiology, neuroepidemiology, neuropathology, neurophysiology, neuroimmunology, psychopathology and neuroimaging.

Our strategy is to improve our knowledge of the inner mechanisms underlying the physiological and pathological functioning of the nervous system, and to exploit this knowledge to improve diagnostics of diseases and to develop more rational and personalized therapies.