The Human Brain Project (HBP) is a long-term and large-scale research initiative that pioneers digital brain research. It aims to gain an in-depth understanding of the complex structure and function of the human brain with a unique interdisciplinary approach at the interface of neuroscience and technology. HBP scientists employ highly advanced methods from computing, neuroinformatics and artificial intelligence to carry out cutting-edge brain research. The acquired knowledge is translated into novel applications in medicine and technological advances. Researchers of the HBP also address the social and ethical implications arising from brain research and its applications.
Leadership
The project is led by Katrin Amunts (Scientific Director) and Pawel Swieboda (General Director).
To facilitate the integration of brain science across disciplines and national borders, the HBP is building a research infrastructure called EBRAINS.
EBRAINS offers an extensive range of brain data sets, a multilevel brain atlas, modelling and simulation tools, an access to high-performance computing resources and robotics and neuromorphic platforms to researchers.
In 2021, EBRAINS was added to the ESFRI Roadmap for Research Infrastructures.
EBRAINS is now transitioning into a sustainable infrastructure that will remain available to the scientific community as a lasting contribution of the Human Brain Project to global scientific progress.
All academic researchers have open access to EBRAINS’ state-of-the-art services.
In its final phase, running from April 2020 to September 2023, the Human Brain Project is focusing on three core scientific focus areas – brain networks, their role in consciousness and artificial neural networks – as well as on expanding the innovative EBRAINS infrastructure and its tools and services.
The Human Brain Project is one of the largest research projects in Europe and one of the European Future and Emerging Technologies (FET) Flagships.
It was launched in 2013 for a duration of 10 years. The Human Brain Project and its 123 Partners are co-funded by the European Commission. Total funding including Partner contributions is 607 Mio EUR.
Strategic partnerships
The HBP is also actively involved in major international brain initiatives and projects such as the International Brain Initiative and the European Brain Research Agenda. As such, it contributes to stimulate brain research and coordinates brain research agendas at the European and global levels.
Reports
SGA1
During the HBP’s first Specific Grant Agreement (SGA1), the HBP Core Project outlined the basis for building and operating a tightly integrated Research Infrastructure, providing HBP researchers and the scientific community with unique resources and capabilities. Read the report here.
SGA2
During the HBP's second Specific Grant Agreement (SGA2), the HBP continued to strengthen global brain research efforts by extending coordination with other brain initiatives and projects. Read the report here.
