Disturbances in the brain's networks play a decisive role in the development of psychiatric disorders. However, it has so far not been possible to translate these scientific findings into clinical practice. A key reason for this is that the molecular and cellular causes of these changes – and thus potential starting points for new therapeutic interventions – are still unknown. Our research focuses on closing this critical gap.

To do so, we use advanced imaging techniques in large patient cohorts to robustly identify changes in the structure and function of brain networks. Translational research approaches using model organisms and state-of-the-art omics methods, combined with artificial intelligence, then provide access to the molecular and cellular level. The aim is, through a better understanding of the foundations of mental illness, to identify new avenues for treatment and, where possible, to translate these into the clinic.

Close collaborations with national and international partners – e.g. the German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), the German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), the Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology (PsychCircuits), the University of Iowa (Iowa City, IA, USA) and the Allen Institute for Brain Science (Seattle, WA, USA) – help us to maintain a lively exchange with international cutting-edge research. We are motivated by the vision of improving mental health and of optimising treatment and prevention strategies out of basic research.