Brain and Cognition

The acquisition, processing and transfer of knowledge is essential for our modern, knowledge-intensive society. Learning and adaptation processes are continuously needed to respond to rapid changes. In addition to this, the expected strong increase in brain disorders as a consequence of general ageing, means there is an urgent need for treatment methods and strategies for the prevention of brain disorders.

The Neurosciences and Cognitive Sciences are of vital importance for welfare (brain diseases, aging), education (developmental disorders, learning) and prosperity and commerce (language and communication technology). Recent important scientific breakthroughs have made it possible to unify brain and mental functions under a single denominator, as a result of which it is now at last possible to integrate knowledge about behaviour, psychological functions, and molecular and cellular processes. Throughout the world the challenge of this research is being acknowledged and recognised.

Dutch neuroscientists and cognitive scientists have an outstanding international reputation and a highly extensive network of international partnerships. The thematic programme, which will possibly be realised in the form of a National Research Initiative (NRI), aims for an optimal integration and concentration of basic Neurosciences research, Medical and Health (Care) research, Cognitive and Behavioural Sciences, Linguistics and Information Iechnology.

This subject links up with the themes of VNO/NCW, the foresight studies of COS and of the Study Centre for Technology Trends and the strategic agenda of the government departments.