Multi-scale and multi-modal assessment of coupling in the healthy and diseased brain.

Our vision is to deliver a step change in understanding the human brain, by creating an imaging programme that uniquely combines the very best neuroimaging expertise, equipment and techniques to answer the fundamental question of how continuous interactions of electrical, chemical, vascular and metabolic processes result in the multi-scale network activity that underpins inter-individual differences in cognition, and key behavioural/functional brain changes in disease. This integrated characteri sation of brain coupling over multiple domains will transform our understanding of the working brain and guide approaches aimed at remedial action when normal coupling is disturbed. We will capitalise on the opportunities afforded by Cardiffs significant investment in a new state-of-the-art research centre that co-houses cutting-edge non-invasive technologies, including 7T, 2x3T, 3T MRI with ultra-strong magnetic field gradients (microstructure scanner), MEG and TMS/TDCS. A team of Fellows, e ach focused on a specific aspect of coupling, but applied within a systematic framework of integration, will allow us to: Optimise signal capture to yield sensitive, robust and repeatable markers of structure/function. Combine the signals to gain substantially deeper biological insights in health/disease/at-risk states. Characterise changes in multi-scale coupling following perturbations, including behavioural, electromagnetic and pharmacological interventions.