Circuits for Complex Behavior Across the Lifespan

The frontal cortex is a highly evolved brain region that mediates a wide range of behaviors, emotions, and cognitive processes. Frontal cortex research across mammalian species has illuminated similarities and differences in the area’s structure and function between rodents, non-human primates, and humans. Defining commonalities across species can reveal conserved roles for the frontal cortex in behavior and help identify novel targets for disease. At the same time, acknowledging differences between species permits a deeper understanding of the fundamental neurobiology of frontal cortex circuits and their unique role in mediating species-specific behaviors. The Frontal Cortex GRC is a venue in which basic and translational researchers can present and discuss their work, and where dialogue across both species of study and subdisciplines is encouraged. The conference emphasizes interaction from diverse populations of investigators across career stages with a goal of connecting established scientists with trainees and junior researchers. The sharing of cutting-edge, unpublished research is emphasized in both presentations and posters, and ample time is provided for discussion and social interaction. As in previous years, the guiding principle is to encourage the building of collaborative and collegial communities across frontal cortex researchers to advance our knowledge of this complex brain system in health and disease.