Michael Long
Monday 16th June 2014
Time: 4pm
Basement Seminar Room
Alexandra House, 17 Queen Square, London, WC1N 3AR
How does the brain generate sequences for behavior?
Complex motor sequences such as speaking are central to our everyday
lives, but little is known about the relevant microcircuitry enabling
these behaviors. In the zebra finch, a dedicated cortical
sequence-generating nucleus known as HVC controls song production.
Using a range of experimental techniques to manipulate and monitor
circuit activity, we have begun to establish a mechanistic
understanding of the cellular and circuit activity underlying premotor
sequence generation in the zebra finch. Specifically, we have
uncovered the mechanisms by which network sparsity is achieved and the
role of recurrent sensory feedback in the maintenance of premotor
patterns. Through initial investigations into mammalian vocal
production circuitry, we are attempting to generalize our findings
across systems.
Short Bio:
Michael Long’s research focuses on understanding the mechanisms by
which neurons work together to enable skilled movements. Towards that
end, he has developed innovative approaches to monitor and manipulate
motor-related neural circuits underlying complex behavioral sequences.
His work extends to a variety of model systems, including humans,
songbirds, and a wild-caught Costa Rican rodent species. In his young
career, Michael has received a number of awards and fellowships
including the Esther A. & Joseph Klingenstein Fellowship Award in the
Neurosciences, the Rita Allen Foundation Scholars Award, and the
Robertson Investigator Award from the New York Stem Cell Foundation.
Dr. Long received his PhD from Brown University, and he completed his
postdoctoral training in the McGovern Institute for Brain Research at
MIT.