Meet the Director

Dr. Michael Yassa is the Director of UCI Brain.
Dr. Michael Yassa is the Director of UCI Brain. He is also the Director of the Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory and Professor of Neurobiology & Behavior, Neurology, and Psychiatry and Human Behavior.

UCI Brain has a bold vision; we are working to unlock the mysteries of the brain.

The impact of such a feat will transform every facet of our lives from eradicating brain disease, to developing next-generation technology, to achieving a profound understanding of human nature. It is no longer the domain of science fiction. Significant investments on a global scale are making this dream closer to reality. UCI is optimally positioned to take the lead on addressing this grand challenge and UCI Brain will help us get there through supporting collaborative research and providing exceptional training to the next generation of leaders in brain science.

To accomplish this vision, UCI Brain will

  1. Recruit new faculty and invest in cutting-edge technology and resources, with a focus on team science;
  2. Build interdisciplinary training programs in neuroscience that arm students with the knowledge, skills, and technologies for tomorrow’s job markets;
  3. Support high-risk high-reward research programs that have the potential for transformative outcomes;
  4. Engage the community and stimulate research funding and support.

By uniting our vibrant neuroscience community with infrastructure and support, we will position UCI to become a global leader transforming our understanding of the human brain.

We invite you to join us.

Michael A. Yassa, Ph.D.
Director, UCI Brain
Director, Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory