We are proud to welcome our new members. Read on to learn about their research expertise, their motivations and what they love about Zurich.
Name and Surname: Felix Scholkmann
Position: Leader of the “Neurophotonics and Biosignal Processing Research Group” at the Biomedical Optics Research Laboratory
Institute: Department of Neonatology, University Hospital and University of Zurich
Research focus: My research focuses on developing, validating, and applying optical neuroimaging technologies across different human populations, ranging from preterm neonates to adults. It also explores the neurovascular correlates of perception, cognition, and behavior using various experimental paradigms, such as music exposure in preterm neonates and altered states of consciousness induced by psychedelics in adults. Additionally, I am interested in biosignal processing and selected topics in human physiology and biophysics, which I study alongside my research group.
Last professional stations: PhD (2014) and Habilitation (2021) at the University of Zurich.
My motivation to do my research: I am fascinated by biomedical technology and human physiology, especially how the brain (and mind) functions. What also drives me is that my work not only involves basic research but seeks to apply the findings in practical ways, such as in clinical settings. I enjoy developing new ideas and am always open to challenging existing concepts.
One thing you shouldn’t miss, when you stay in Zurich: I recommend a swim in Lake Zurich (summer or winter!), a ride on the Polybahn, and a walk through the Züriberg woods (where I’m often found).
Contact: https://www.usz.ch/team/felix-scholkmann
Name and Surname: Jean-Philippe Krieger
Position: Junior Group Leader
Institute: Institute of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich-VetSuisse
Research focus: The goal of our research is to delineate how gut-brain communication, notably via the vagus nerve, contributes to the control of metabolism and behavior. With this research, we expect to design innovative vagal-targeted treatments for metabolic and mental disorders.
Last professional station: Previously postdoctoral fellow at the University of Gothenburg, Sweden (Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska academy)
My motivation to do my research: Apart from the fascinating topic, working with a team of people from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and ages is a daily joy. It also brings fresh ideas and energy to our research.
One thing you shouldn’t miss, when you stay in Zurich: Running up the Uetliberg and enjoying the views and a Gelato at Uto Kulm. You can also take the train, but the gelato doesn’t taste as great 😉
Contact: https://www.thevagalab.com/
Name and Surname: Chiara De Luca
Position: Postdoctoral Researcher
Institute: Digital Society Initiative, University of Zurich and Institute of Neuroinformatics, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich
Research focus: I’m applying brain-inspired technologies to precision farming. Just as the brain integrates information from different sources to form a cohesive internal image, we analyze data from multiple sensors to optimize agricultural resources and production.
Last professional station: PhD student at APELab, La Sapienza University of Rome, funded by the National Institute of Nuclear Physics (INFN), Rome, Italy.
My motivation to do my research: I wanted to apply my theoretical knowledge of complex systems to real-world challenges, especially environmental issues, while exploring the brain’s incredible capabilities.
One thing you shouldn’t miss, when you stay in Zurich: In summer, swim in the Limmat or the lake; in winter, enjoy the snowy old town with hot chocolate or Glühwein.
Contact: https://www.dsi.uzh.ch/en/people/researchers/dsi-postdocs/cdeluca.html
Title Image: National Cancer Institute on unsplash