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Marc A. Sommer

Professor of Biomedical Engineering
Biomedical Engineering
Duke Box 90281, Durham, NC 27708-0281
1427 CIEMAS, Box 90281, 101 Science Dr., Durham, NC 27708

Overview


We study circuits for cognition. Using a combination of neurophysiology and biomedical engineering, we focus on the interaction between brain areas during visual perception, decision-making, and motor planning. Specific projects include the role of frontal cortex in metacognition, the role of cerebellar-frontal circuits in action timing, the neural basis of "good enough" decision-making (satisficing), and the neural mechanisms of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS).

Current Appointments & Affiliations


Professor of Biomedical Engineering · 2023 - Present Biomedical Engineering, Pratt School of Engineering
Associate Professor in Neurobiology · 2011 - Present Neurobiology, Basic Science Departments
Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience · 2024 - Present Psychology & Neuroscience, Trinity College of Arts & Sciences
Investigator in the Duke Institute for Brain Sciences · 2010 - Present Duke Institute for Brain Sciences, University Institutes and Centers
Member of the Center for Cognitive Neuroscience · 2010 - Present Center for Cognitive Neuroscience, Duke Institute for Brain Sciences
Associate of the Duke Initiative for Science & Society · 2017 - Present Duke Science & Society, Initiatives

Education, Training & Certifications


Massachusetts Institute of Technology · 1995 Ph.D.