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Jason Climer
Research Associate at Northwestern University
Jason Climer is a neuroscientist who recently joined the University of Illinois as an assistant professor of molecular and integrative physiology in November 2024.1 Prior to this appointment, he was a Research Associate at Northwestern University in the Dombeck lab.14
Research Focus
Dr. Climer's research centers on understanding the neurobiological basis of memory, with a particular emphasis on:
- The hippocampal formation and neurons that fire when animals visit specific locations in an environment.1
- Mapping how inputs on neurons relate to their firing patterns.1
- Studying how neural firing develops over extended periods.1
- Investigating the process of forgetting and its role in healthy memory function.1
His lab uses long-term imaging of neurons in mice performing memory tasks in virtual reality environments to explore these areas.1
Academic Background
Research Techniques
Dr. Climer employs various techniques in his work, including:
- Calcium and neurotransmitter imaging2
- Computational approaches to understand neural messaging2
- Virtual reality tasks for memory studies2
Teaching Interests
His teaching focuses on helping students understand modern neurophysiological data and how to analyze it to learn about the brain. He emphasizes the importance of analytical skills in today's job market.1
Personal Motivation
Dr. Climer's interest in studying the brain and memory was partly inspired by his grandfather's battle with Alzheimer's disease. This personal experience motivated him to pursue basic research into the workings of memory.1