How does the brain set goals and transform information about the world into actions to achieve its plans? 

Our research in this area focuses on understanding purposeful behaviour. Neuroscientists at SWC are studying the neural circuits regulating motivation in pursuit of a goal, selection and sequencing of actions, and execution with the appropriate vigour to generate a coordinated behavioural response. 

Spatial navigation is a key focus area and we are exploring the role of memory, including both long-term memories for locations and short-term memories for ecologically significant information.

Read more about SWC's Mission

Research News

• Brain circuit that converts spatial goals to escape actions discovered

• Honeycomb maze reveals role of hippocampus in navigation decisions

• Neuroscientists illuminate how brain cells ‘navigate’ in the light and dark

• Mouse-controlled mouse helps researchers understand intentional control

• Navigating to safety by memorising subgoals

• How does the brain accurately represent self-motion during navigation?

• High risk high reward: Neuroscientists discover the key to motivational behaviours

• Neuroscientists uncover sensory switches controlling infanticide and parental behaviour in mice

• How does the brain’s spatial map change when we change the shape of the room?

• Neuroscientists identify distinct circuits in the brain that maintain balance

• Honeycomb Maze offers significant improvement over current spatial navigation tests