me

About Us

We are a transdisciplinary team of Network Neuroscientists at the University of Calgary. We combine expertise from Computer Science, Physics, Neuroscience, and Biology to advance our understanding of the brain. We address fundamental questions relating to the link between structure and function in brain networks, and how mental illness can be understood - and treated - as a connectivity problem. Our research is supported by NSERC, NFRF-E, and the Owerko Centre.

Research

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vulnerability to mental illness

The healthy brain exhibits numerous network features, including a rich club, modular structure, and a balance between economy and efficiency. These features are disrupted in various brain disorders and diseases, and mental illness.

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network control principles in c. elegans

The brain must control its behaviour. Elucidating the structural requirements to facilitate this can reveal fundamental organising principles and mechanisms pertaining to the function of neuronal systems, and constraints of their connectome.

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topology and geometry of brain networks

Time and again, studies into the topology of brain networks across different species, scales, and modality recover the same topological features. But these networks are also physical objects, and we are just starting to learn about their spatial properties.

Team

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lab members

Our multidisciplinary team comprises folks from a range of backgrounds, including Computer Science, Physics, Neuroscience, and Biology.

Publications

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publication list

Full list of peer-reviewed journal publications and conference proceedings from the lab.

News

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what's on

The latest from the lab

Contact

You can reach Dr. Towlson via either "emma dot towlson at ucalgary dot ca" or "ektowlson at gmail dot com". We are always seeking talented students with diverse interests and new collaborations with folks who share our desire to make an impact. We'd love to hear from you!