BHI Plenary Seminar: Dr. Michael J. Frank Delivers Inspiring Seminar on Decision-Making and Deep Brain Stimulation
On November 6, 2025, the Rutgers Brain Health Institute (BHI) welcomed Dr. Michael J. Frank, the Edgar L. Marston Professor of Cognitive, Linguistic, and Psychological Sciences and Director of the Carney Center for Computational Brain Science at Brown University, for a captivating plenary seminar on “Frontosubthalamic Control over Motivated Action.” The event was hosted by Dr. Travis Baker, Associate Professor in the Center for Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience at Rutgers University–Newark. The seminar drew an exceptional audience, filling the seminar room to its 50-person capacity, with approximately 50 additional participants joining via Zoom from across Rutgers campuses – and even from Yale University.
Insights into Brain Circuits of Decision-Making
Dr. Frank presented groundbreaking work on how the subthalamic nucleus (STN)—the primary target for deep brain stimulation in Parkinson’s disease—contributes to adaptive decision-making. Drawing from his lab’s multilevel modeling approach, he demonstrated how the STN acts as a dynamic “decision threshold” regulator, sending a “hold your horses” signal during conflict to prevent premature responses.
Dr. Frank’s presentation elegantly bridged computational theory, neural mechanisms, and clinical applications—showcasing how STN deep brain stimulation can both alleviate motor symptoms and induce cognitive side effects like impulsivity.
Lively Discussion and Insightful Q&A
The extensive Q&A session following the talk sparked rich discussions about individual differences in decision-making, applications to clinical disorders such as Tourette’s syndrome, and how computational psychiatry can inform precision medicine.
Beyond the seminar, Dr. Frank’s visit fostered meaningful engagement with the Rutgers neuroscience community. A student lunch brought together approximately 20 undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral students for an intimate discussion.
“Dr. Frank’s emphasis on linking theory to mechanisms across computational, cognitive, and biophysical levels provided valuable insights for trainees pursuing careers at the intersection of basic and translational neuroscience,” said Dr. Baker.
Connecting with Faculty and Exploring Collaborations
Dr. Frank was particularly impressed by the breadth of research at Rutgers, participating in faculty meetings that spanned topics from systems neuroscience to human cognitive neuroscience. These discussions highlighted natural synergies between his research and ongoing work within BHI’s centers.
Adding a lighthearted twist to the day, Dr. Frank—a Montreal native and devoted Montreal Canadiens fan—gave his seminar wearing his team’s jersey, as the Canadiens were facing the New Jersey Devils that evening. Dr. Baker and another BHI member joined him at the game. Although the Devils claimed victory in overtime, the spirit of scientific and sporting camaraderie made for an unforgettable visit.
The Rutgers Brain Health Institute (BHI), through its plenary seminar series and interdisciplinary initiatives, fosters collaborations that drive discoveries in neurodegeneration, psychiatric disorders, and cognitive function, empowering the next generation of researchers to translate insights into transformative therapies. Explore our mission, ongoing projects, and engagement opportunities at Rutgers Brain Health Institute. Learn more about the Rutgers Addiction Research Center (RARC) and its mission to advance addiction science.
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