The human brain is a paradigmatic example of a complex multilevel dynamical system and its understanding is one of the most important challenges for modern scientific research. Its complex geometric architecture and functional dynamics cover many spatiotemporal orders of magnitude, e.g. the typical length scales of the structures in which neurons are organized range from a few micrometers to tens of centimeters giving rise to complex networks and fractal patterns. In addition, its functional activity is hierarchically organized in time scales from milliseconds to minutes and hours determining both bursts of rapid activity and slow wave synchronization and modulation.
All these complex spatiotemporal features are reflected in incredibly rich behavioral manifestations. For this reason, brain science is the best example of interdisciplinary science where increasingly neuroscientists, neurophysiologists, psychiatrists collaborate with physicists, mathematicians and computer scientists to uncover its complex hidden features.
Such an approach, based on multidisciplinary collaborations, on one hand will allow a better understanding of the functions of the brain, while on the other hand will help to shed light on the functioning of other complex dynamic systems. The purpose of this meeting at the Enrico Fermi Research Center is precisely to create a first opportunity for collaborative exchange of ideas between neuroscientists and statistical physicists working on theoretical models for the geometry and dynamics of the brain.
Here are the presentations and speeches of the guests of the meeting.