New Faculty: Antonio Fernandez Ruiz

Antonio Fernandez Ruiz

Assistant Professor, Neurobiology and Behavior

Academic focus:
Learning and memory, neural circuits, brain dynamics and computation 

Current research project: 
We investigate the neural circuit mechanisms of learning and memory using rodents as a model system. More broadly, we are interested in how the dynamic coordination of neurons across the brain support cognitive functions and flexible behaviors. 

Previous positions:

• Postdoc, NYU Neuroscience Institute, New York, 2016-2021

Academic background:

• Ph.D., Biophysics, Complutense University of Madrid, Spain, 2015
• M.Sc., Biomedical physics, Complutense University of Madrid, Spain, 2011
• B.Sc., in Biological Sciences, University of Sevilla, Spain, 2009

Last book read:
“Selected Stories” by Philip K Dick

In your own time/when not working:
Reading novels, writing, painting, hiking and generally enjoying the beautiful outdoors of Ithaca with our dog

Courses you’re most looking forward to teaching:
I am looking forward to designing a course of my own about the fundamental principles of brain computation and how the beautifully coordinated neural dynamics support flexible cognitive functions.

What most excites you about Cornell:
Most of my career I have been working in medical schools in big cities, so moving to Cornell has been a big change. I look forward to the multidisciplinary academy environment and being together in the same campus with researchers and students from all fields of sciences and humanities. I believe this is an ideal environment that encourages you to think outside your comfort zone and explore new research directions.

Twitter handle/blog url:
@antferrui