Notwithstanding the huge progress in the molecular and cellular neuroscience fields, our understanding of the brain is still limited. There is a need for a conceptual shift from a brain-centered to a brain-body-environment inclusive approach. In this perspective, the role of behavior is central as it represents the interface between the whole organism and the environment, thus being the ultimate functional outcome in healthy and pathological conditions. Such an approach has relevant theoretical implications for progressing the neuroscience field, in addition to holding the promise for novel potential therapeutic strategies for mental health.

Within the School's framework, we will exploit an interdisciplinary approach, spanning from ethology to applied neuroscience, psychiatry and philosophy, to provide innovative thinking tools to advance our understanding of brain and behavior in a complex and dynamic perspective. This will be accomplished by harnessing theoretical models that transcend the boundaries between fields and disciplines, beyond the mainstream.

Plenary talks by leaders in the field will be followed up by interactive sessions guided by both senior and junior discussants. Training in soft skills will complement more theoretical discussions to gain knowledge that can be implemented by each participant in its own research. 

The ultimate goal of this course is to provide the participants with innovative and critical tools to explore new avenues for our comprehension of the interplay between brain and behavior, in addition to addressing the current need for interdisciplinary research