We investigate how grid cells and other spatially tuned neurons emerge, encode cognitive maps, and integrate sensory and behavioral information to support spatial navigation.
LIFE SCIENCE · OPEN LAB
Mapping the neural circuits of space, time, memory, and social cognition
How does the brain construct internal maps of the world? At Miao Lab, we investigate the neural circuits and computational principles underlying spatial navigation, memory, and social cognition. By integrating systems neuroscience, advanced imaging, and computational approaches, we seek to understand how cognitive maps emerge, evolve, and become disrupted in neurological disease.
About the lab
Every question of the brain deserves to be taken seriously
We build an interdisciplinary, open research environment for scientists and students who are curious about how life works.
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Cross-disciplinaryConnect perspectives
RigorousRespect every datum
Our belief
Break complex questions into steps we can test.
From experimental design to data analysis, we believe transparency, reproducibility and mutual support are the foundation of long-term discovery.
Research focus
What are we asking?
We use quantitative experiments, advanced imaging and data science to understand the complexity of brain systems.
We explore how the entorhinal–hippocampal network and associated brain regions interact to generate, maintain, and transform cognitive maps through coordinated neural circuit activity.
We investigate cognitive map dysfunction in aging and Alzheimer's disease, while developing VR-based neural recording and imaging approaches to advance neural decoding and brain–computer interfaces.
Resources
Field notes & public materials
A living archive of laboratory images, documents and materials, maintained by the lab team.
