How does the brain transform what we perceive into what we do? Even a simple action, such as stopping at a red light and moving again when it turns green, requires the brain to select relevant sensory information, form an intention, prepare an appropriate movement and execute it at the right moment. How neural circuits achieve this transformation from perception to action remains a fundamental question in neuroscience.
This PhD project will investigate the brain circuits that bridge sensory processing, motor planning and action execution, focussing on interactions between the motor cortex, thalamus and superior colliculus (SC). Of particular interest are genetically defined Pitx2 neurons in the SC, which receive cortical motor signals, communicate with thalamic and downstream motor regions and are organised into spatial modules capable of generating specific orienting movements. Their unique connectivity suggests that they may provide a crucial link between where an animal intends to go and the actions required to get there.
To investigate this, we have developed a freely moving, spatial GO-NOGO task in which mice use sensory cues to navigate towards goals in a three-dimensional environment. Unlike traditional head-fixed tasks involving simple left/right choices, this approach allows us to study decision-making and motor planning during naturalistic, whole-body behaviour.
The project will combine this behavioural paradigm with state-of-the-art approaches including high-density neural recordings and multiphoton imaging, optogenetic manipulation, viral circuit tracing and quantitative behavioural analysis. By following and manipulating neural activity as animals progress from sensing a cue to planning and executing an action, the project aims to uncover fundamental principles by which the brain transforms perception and intention into purposeful movement. Other PhD projects may also be available. Please visit the project page on our group website to explore our broader research programme.