Education

Ph.D. in Math; University of California, Berkeley
B.A. in Math and Physics; Washington University, St. Louis

Research Interests

Research in the Troyer lab focuses on the question of how neural activity is coordinated within neural circuits to produce behavior. One set of research questions centers on studies of vocal communication in songbirds and mice. Songbirds are an excellent model system for understanding how the brain orchestrates activity on multiple timescales to produce a complex sequence of actions.

A second line of research employs theoretical and modeling techniques to gain fundamental insights into how noise and variability influence computations in neural circuits. Particular questions include neural resonance and synchronization within cells and circuits, and the emergence of power law behavior.

Training Opportunities

Research in the Troyer Lab combines theoretical and computer modeling techniques with detailed analysis of vocal behavior. Students receive training in a broad range of techniques in computational neuroscience. More theoretical research is based on a solid grounding in mathematical approaches to studying and modeling nonlinear dynamical system, including the use of phase response curves and stochastic differential equations.

Students investigating vocal behavior will learn a range of modern signal processing techniques. All students receive extensive training in computer programming and gain familiarity with modern statistical and machine learning approaches to data analysis.

Publications

» list of publications