Can the sum of the parts be greater than the whole? Neural-inspired computation through study of canonical circuits

Abstract:
Neuroscience is entering an era of big data that will greatly advance our understanding of neural circuitry and what neural computations underlie brain function and behavior. At the same time, neural-inspired computing is also experiencing a renaissance, but it has not fully exploited the potential of neuroscience big data. My research at Sandia has focused on studying “canonical” circuits of the nervous system, for example motion-sensitivity in the retina, and exploring how furthering our understanding of these neural circuits can lead to new advances in engineered systems.