Dr. Xu's interests are in neural circuitry, which applies to understanding the neurobiology of sensory perception, learning and memory, and epilepsy. Understanding how neural circuits give rise to perception, cognition, and behavior is central to understanding how the brain works. This is also key to understanding the mechanistic basis of neurological disorders. Our research is focused on understanding cell-type specific cortical circuit organization and function, using combined approaches of electrophysiology, optical stimulation and imaging, molecular genetics and viral tracing. Our research program is funded by NIH grants and private foundation funds.

Key Research Areas:

Neural circuits, cell-type specific, electrophysiology, imaging, optical stimulation