Introduction to the UK Neuroinformatics Network
Background
Over the past 20 years, our understanding of the nervous system has expanded dramatically. We now have detailed knowledge of the nerve cell, its subcellular components and how groups of cells influence each other. But what we don't yet know is how the many different components of the brain and other parts of the nervous system come together to form a properly-functioning entity. Managing this diversity of data and juggling different theories of nervous system function requires teamwork across disciplines.
Practitioners within mathematics, physics and engineering have developed great expertise for dealing with complex data and managing exploratory theories. Neuroinformatics is an emerging field fostering multidisciplinary work between the physical and the life sciences towards understanding the brain and the nervous system.
In this Network we bring together UK scientists working in the key disciplines supporting neuroinformatics. Through a series of workshops and discussion groups, we provide a forum for the neuroinformatics community, with the aim of developing the agenda for UK neuroinformatics within the international context over the next 10 years. The Network has been inspired by workshops held across the UK over the last few years. Findings from the MRC/EPSRC-funded workshop were particularly influential.
The central scientific theme of the Network is multilevel computational modelling of the nervous system, including relevant analytical methods and information technologies to support this activity, such as modelling tools, computational algorithms and databases.
Network Activities
Activities focus on establishing the state-of-the-art, fostering the development of the neuroinformatics community, exploring potential areas of growth, together with publicising neuroinformatics both nationally and internationally. This will be achieved by a combination of open workshops, small group meetings, and a set of investigations into issues that are critical to the field, all established in consultation with members of the neuroinformatics community.
