Understanding how the brain works is one of science’s greatest challenges.

The key obstacle when attacking this challenge is that we do not understand how neural systems work together to support adaptive behavior. Adaptive behavior requires processing sensory information with focused attention, reaching decisions, acting, and learning from the results of those actions. These require the brain to combine a vast array of information from prior experience, current sensory stimuli, and internal and environmental contexts. These computations involve dynamic interactions between millions of neurons within local circuits and across many brain regions. Understanding these processes is a problem with a scale and complexity that far exceed what can be tackled by any single laboratory and that demands computational theory to be interwoven with experimental design and analysis in a manner not yet achieved. To overcome these challenges, we have created a virtual laboratory, unifying a group of 22 highly experienced neuroscience groups distributed across the world. 

Our collaboration is built on the principles of open science. We make all publications, data, software, and knowledge freely available and accessible. Through these actions, we aim to increase the reproducibility of our science and to create a more inclusive, transparent, and democratic approach to research. 

The IBL is committed to opposing all forms of discrimination, identifying and tackling the causes and consequences of discrimination. We pledge: to provide an environment for learning and working in which the rights and dignity of all members are respected and in which discrimination, prejudice, intimidation, and all forms of bullying or harassment are promptly and effectively addressed; to make a diverse mix of talented people feel valued, motivated and enabled to do their best work; and to create a safe, welcoming working environment accessible to all.