Research Themes at Beckman Institute
Research at the Beckman Institute is categorized into four broad themes to provide faculty with a loose organizational framework. The Beckman Institute’s interdisciplinary approach allows areas of study to overlap within and across these research themes. The themes are Biological Intelligence, Human-Computer Intelligent Interaction, Integrative Imaging, and Molecular and Electronic Nanostructures.
Biological Intelligence
Research in Biological Intelligence starts with the study of the individual molecules
that comprise the brain cells and builds toward an understanding of the anatomy
and physiology of brain regions and sense organs. From there, researchers consider
the functioning of the brain and how its parts work together to achieve basic abilities,
such as perception, attention, learning, and memory.
Learn more about BioIntel →
Human-Computer Intelligent Interaction
The Human-Computer Intelligent Interaction research theme seeks to enhance human-machine
interface design through the optimization of state-of-the-art technology development
and engineering of multimodal interface design concepts. This theme also seeks to
explicate the mechanisms of human perception, cognition, and action that are relevant
to industrial, military, and consumer products.
Learn more about HCII →
Integrative Imaging
The Integrative Imaging research theme is dedicated to bringing together
ideas, modalities, and people in imaging to foster the interdisciplinary discovery
of fundamental principles in imaging science, new enabling technologies for the
next generation of imaging instruments, and novel techniques for basic and translational
research. The Integrative Imaging research theme includes an interdisciplinary group of faculty
conducting research in imaging science, technology, and application.
Learn more about IntIm →
Molecular & Electronic Nanostructures
The general goal of the Molecular & Electronic Nanostructures research theme
is to develop a fundamental understanding of chemical and physical processes involving
structures on the nanometer scale. Biomolecules, mesoscopic semiconductor-based
systems, and macromolecular assemblies are studied with emphasis on future electronic
or optoelectronic applications.
Learn more about M&ENS →