Description

The Cognitive Neuroscience program funds research that advances theoretical understanding of the neural mechanisms underlying human cognition and behavior. Proposals should integrate precise quantification of physiological responses with behavioral measures, advancing theory through well-motivated experiments or analyses. The program welcomes multidisciplinary approaches and encourages convergence across multiple techniques, such as neuroimaging (fMRI, EEG, MEG), non-invasive stimulation (TMS, tDCS), lesion analysis, intracranial recording, optogenetics, genetics, optical imaging, computational modeling, and pharmacological interventions in humans and animal models (with clear relevance to human cognition).

Strong proposals must address both intellectual merit and broader impacts, including outreach, mentoring, STEM education (especially in underserved communities), and public engagement. The program also values strong mentoring plans for trainees and expects data sharing for funded research.

Proposals focused solely on behavior or physiology without linking the two, those centered on clinical populations, or those using non-human animals without clear relevance to human cognition will be returned without review.