The mysteries of the mind may challenge philosophers, but to Dr. Jérémie Lefebvre the challenge is different – the brain is the ultimate computer math puzzle.
"Think of the brain itself as a computer – a biological computer. Instead of using software or hardware, it uses wetware," says Dr. Lefebvre, a neuroscientist and mathematician at the Krembil Research Institute.
Dr. Lefebvre's lab at Krembil studies computational neuroscience and non-linear dynamics.
It's called the SYNC lab – it synchronizes studies and stimulates corroborative work around the world among researchers working in a variety of disciplines. Dr. Lefebvre and his team develop and analyze models of neural circuits to better understand the brain and how it is affected by neurodegenerative diseases.
"This is where mathematics and physics come in," he explains. "The neurons in the brain are actually doing computations and calculations, and we're trying to crack the code."
The Krembil Research Institute and The Globe and Mail have teamed up for a special content project designed to highlight the tremendous accomplishments of our scientists and research programs at Krembil. The first of three of magazine in this series focuses on the success stories within the brain and spine program and is now available online.
