Laboratory of Neuropsychology (LN)

Overview

The Laboratory of Neuropsychology (LN) is part of the Division of Intramural Research Programs (IRP) at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) in Bethesda, Maryland. The laboratory conducts research on the brain mechanisms of perception, attention, learning and memory, emotion and decision making. It is comprised of five research teams: the Section on the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, led by Dr. Elisabeth (Betsy) Murray; the Section on Neural Coding and Computation, headed by Dr. Barry Richmond; the Section on Cognitive Neurophysiology and Imaging, led by Dr. David Leopold; the Section on Learning and Decision Making, led by Dr. Bruno Averbeck; and the Unit on Neurons, Circuits and Behavior, headed by Dr. Arash Afraz.

The five research groups in the laboratory focus on different questions, but they are closely related. In all of the work, there is a strong emphasis on visual processing, reward processing, and the neural bases of learning, memory and decision making. Each team employs different, but complementary methods to answer their questions. As a result, the laboratory’s investigators and their support teams operate in a collaborative and collegial environment, with substantial synergy. In addition to shared interests, laboratory members share scientific resources, such as the equipment required for histology, microscopy and surgery. The laboratory also adheres to a set of core values, which includes placing a high priority on cutting-edge methods, outstanding training and mentorship, and the efficient use of resources.