Neuroscience Research Center

Decoding the Brain: Investigating Neural Circuits for Health and Disease

The Neuroscience Research Center (NRC) at Shahroud University of Medical Sciences is a multidisciplinary hub dedicated to advancing knowledge of the central and peripheral nervous systems.

Our scientific mission centers on multi-scale investigation—from molecular and cellular mechanisms to systems-level neural circuit dynamics—aimed at understanding normal brain function and uncovering the pathophysiology of neurological and psychiatric disorders.

Introduction

Established with the strategic goal of becoming a regional leader in fundamental and translational neuroscience, the NRC operates within the academically vibrant environment of SHMU, benefiting from strong institutional support and dedicated biomedical infrastructure.

The Center integrates expertise across:

• Basic neurobiology

• Clinical neurology

• Psychiatry

• Biophysics

• Computational neuroscience

This interdisciplinary framework enables seamless collaboration between laboratory-based discovery and clinical application.

The integration of the NRC within SHMU and its affiliated teaching hospitals provides exceptional opportunities for bench-to-bedside translation, facilitating high-impact clinical research grounded in mechanistic neuroscience.

Our research philosophy is guided by three foundational pillars:

1. Rigorous Scientific Inquiry – Encouraging innovative, high-impact research that challenges existing paradigms.

2. Collaborative Synergy – Promoting cross-disciplinary integration within and beyond the university.

3. Translational Impact – Ensuring that fundamental discoveries contribute meaningfully to patient care.

All research activities are conducted under strict ethical oversight in accordance with institutional and national regulations, including review by the SHMU Institutional Review Board (IRB).

To generate transformative neuroscientific knowledge and translate it into innovative diagnostic tools, therapeutic strategies, and improved clinical management approaches for neurological and psychiatric disorders.

To become a globally recognized center of excellence in circuit neuroscience—driving innovation from molecular discovery to clinical implementation—while mentoring and empowering the next generation of neuroscientists.

The NRC is structured into focused research divisions that collectively span the spectrum of modern neuroscience.

1. Molecular & Cellular Neurobiology

Investigates intracellular signaling pathways, synaptic plasticity, neuroinflammation, and cellular mechanisms underlying neural development, degeneration, and repair.

2. Systems & Cognitive Neuroscience

Examines how neural circuits encode, process, and integrate information using:

• In vivo electrophysiology

• Advanced imaging techniques

• Computational modeling

• Network dynamics analysis

3. Neuropsychiatry

Explores the neural substrates of psychiatric and behavioral disorders through:

• Functional neuroimaging

• Connectivity and network analysis

• Translational behavioral paradigms

The NRC is supported by state-of-the-art research infrastructure, including:

• Advanced electrophysiology suites

• Two-photon and high-resolution imaging systems

• Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) platforms

• Comprehensive behavioral testing facilities

• Computational analysis and modeling resources

These facilities enable high-precision, reproducible research across experimental scales.

The NRC actively pursues international partnerships to:

• Integrate cutting-edge methodologies

• Conduct joint research initiatives

• Facilitate researcher exchange programs

• Accelerate translational applications of neuroscientific discoveries

Through global engagement, the Center strengthens its scientific impact and visibility.

Director: Dr. Behzad Garmabi
Assistant Professor of Neuroscience
Shahroud University of Medical Sciences

Email: behzad.garmabi@gmail.com
Office: Neuroscience Research Center, Central Research Building, SHMU Campus