Experimental themes

Our research group is interested in the capabilities of non-neural organisms, where we aim to generate scientifically tractable questions that can be empirically tested.

Key questions:

1. Associative learning in non-neural organisms
   • Can organisms without nervous systems form conditioned associations between different environmental stimuli?
     • Designing experiments to test associative behaviours in acellular slime mould and plants.
     • Emphasising the importance of rigorous replication and validation of findings.
2. Mechanisms of memory in non-neural systems
   • What processes enable memory-like behaviours in organisms that lack neurons?
     • Investigating how slime mould retain information about past environments.
     • Exploring the biochemical and physical bases of memory in unicellular organisms.
3. Information processing without neurons
   • How do non-neural organisms process and respond to complex information?
     • Studying signal transduction pathways and feedback mechanisms in plants and microorganisms.
     • Examining how environmental cues lead to adaptive changes in behaviour.
4. Adaptive decision-making strategies
   • What strategies do non-neural organisms use to make decisions?
     • Analysing movement patterns and resource allocation in slime mould.
     • Comparing these strategies to decision-making models in neural organisms.

Our approach:

• Rigorous methodologies: We design experiments with careful controls and replication plans to ensure robustness and reliability.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration: Combining insights from biology, ecology, and cognitive science to enrich our understanding.
• Openness to critique: We welcome critical evaluation and aim to contribute constructively to ongoing scientific discussions.