The Rockefeller University

A recent study from Rockefeller's Winrich Freiwald adds support to the long-standing idea that the brain accomplishes novel problems by piecing together bits of existing knowledge—a process called compositional generalization.

For example, humans tackle complex math equations by combining simpler mathematical functions. For a macaque monkey, it might mean using using known tree-climbing moves to climb a new tree and snag a delectable fruit.

Freiwald's work demonstrates that when monkeys draw complex shapes, their neural activity reflects patterns of activation elicited by drawing simpler, component shapes.

“We’re beginning to see some components, like loops and clauses, and elementary symbols that you would have in a computer program, in different parts of the brain,” Freiwald says, which suggests that the brain’s inventiveness can be understood mechanistically: “That’s why I’m optimistic that this is really solvable.”

Learn more in this piece from The Transmitter.

Macaque brains remix learned actions to solve new problems When monkeys draw novel complex shapes, neural activity representing a previously learned repertoire appears in a single brain area.

RockEDU’s long-running "Jumpstart" program gives New York City high school students access to authentic research experiences and a chance to envision themselves as scientists.

Outside of a handful of elite STEM schools, most of the city’s more than 500 public schools provide limited access to skill-building in the lab and pathways into professional science. Launched in 2014, Jumpstart gives juniors and seniors from across the city the chance to train alongside working scientists and build the confidence and skills to succeed in research environments.

“It’s a core pillar for our team, grounding us in our mission and centering us, setting the tone for what science outreach can and should look like,” says Jen Bohn, assistant director of RockEDU. “It’s an opportunity to show students a world that can feel locked away in an ivory tower. It breaks down barriers.”

The Rockefeller University » "Jumpstart" provides a path into science Avid readers at Rockefeller University have launched a book club that gathers every month to discuss a work of sci-fi.