Julien Posture
Illustrator
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The best of ‘this paper changed my life’ in 2025
From a study that upended astrocyte research to one that reignited the field of spiking neural networks, experts weighed in on the papers that significantly shaped how they think about and approach neuroscience.
The best of ‘this paper changed my life’ in 2025
This paper changed my life: Nancy Padilla-Coreano on learning the value of population coding
The 2013 Nature paper by Mattia Rigotti and his colleagues revealed how mixed selectivity neurons—cells that are not selectively tuned to a stimulus—play a key role in cognition.
This paper changed my life: Sandra Jurado marvels at the first-ever 3D model of a synaptic vesicle
In this 2006 Cell paper, Shigeo Takamori and his colleagues showcased the molecular machinery of synaptic vesicles in outstanding detail. Their work taught me that these aren’t just passive containers for neurotransmitters but dynamic, precision-built nanomachines.
This paper changed my life: Dan Goodman on a paper that reignited the field of spiking neural networks
Friedemann Zenke’s 2019 paper, and its related coding tutorial SpyTorch, made it possible to apply modern machine learning to spiking neural networks. The innovation reinvigorated the field.
This paper changed my life: Dan Goodman on a paper that reignited the field of spiking neural networks
This paper changed my life: Abigail Person on birdsong, feed-forward circuits and convergent computations
By isolating specific neuron types involved in zebra finch birdsong, this 2002 Nature paper from Michael Fee and colleagues revealed elegant neural mechanisms controlling the timing of natural learned behavior.
Explore more from The Transmitter
Amid funding uncertainty, graduate neuroscience programs in the U.S. adapt
The Transmitter surveyed 50 graduate program directors to learn how they’re faring. Securing labs for new students is one of the greatest concerns.
Amid funding uncertainty, graduate neuroscience programs in the U.S. adapt
The Transmitter surveyed 50 graduate program directors to learn how they’re faring. Securing labs for new students is one of the greatest concerns.
The changing nature of the neuroscience Ph.D.
The best science can only be sustained by a steady influx of early-stage scientists and the innovative ideas they bring, says Diane Lipscombe. She reflects on the loss of international students, the value of training grants, and the challenges that lie ahead for graduate education.
The changing nature of the neuroscience Ph.D.
The best science can only be sustained by a steady influx of early-stage scientists and the innovative ideas they bring, says Diane Lipscombe. She reflects on the loss of international students, the value of training grants, and the challenges that lie ahead for graduate education.
Rethinking neuroscience graduate education in the age of AI
What knowledge from traditional training protocols needs to be maintained, what can be discarded, and what new types of training should be introduced? Six neuroscientists weigh in.
Rethinking neuroscience graduate education in the age of AI
What knowledge from traditional training protocols needs to be maintained, what can be discarded, and what new types of training should be introduced? Six neuroscientists weigh in.