Professor Dr. Michael Hasselmo

Biography

Michael Hasselmo is a Professor in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences at Boston University, where he directs the Computational Neurophysiology Laboratory and the Center for Systems Neuroscience. His research focuses on cortical dynamics and memory-guided behavior, particularly investigating the effects of neuromodulatory receptors and the role of theta rhythm oscillations in cortical function. He employs neurophysiological techniques to analyze the intrinsic synaptic properties of cortical circuits in rats and explores the effects of neuromodulators on these properties. His work involves computational modeling that links physiological data with memory-guided behavior. The experiments conducted in his laboratory utilize multiple single-unit recording and behavioral tasks aimed at testing predictions derived from computational models. His research areas include episodic memory function, theta rhythm dynamics in the entorhinal cortex, prefrontal cortex, and hippocampal formation. Additionally, his research addresses physiological effects relevant to Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, and depression.

Research Interests