Marco Iacoboni Marco Iacoboni
E-mail: iacoboni@loni.ucla.edu
Website: www.cbd.ucla.edu/bios/iacoboni.html
My research focuses on the neural basis and functional mechanisms of sensorimotor integration. Sensorimotor integration is a fundamental aspect of human behavior and is necessary to perform the most basic acts in everyday life, like reaching for a cup and grasping it. I study sensorimotor integration at three main levels of complexity. First, I address basic mechanisms of sensorimotor integration using both behavioral (accuracy, reaction times) and physiological (blood flow changes, corticospinal excitability) parameters. Second, I study more complex levels of sensorimotor integration by investigating the neural correlates of imitation and the human mirror system. Third, I address even higher levels of sensorimotor integration studying the relationships between action representation and complex integrative functions, such as social cognition and theory of mind.

From a methodological perspective, I use a converging evidence approach. Although most of my research focuses on the use of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and positron emission tomography (PET), I also use computational modeling, neuropsychology, and psychophysics to study sensorimotor integration, imitation, and higher cognition. From a theoretical standpoint, I adopt the stance that is now known as 'embodiment'. According to this view, the neural representations instantiated by higher cognitive processes are an emergent property of simpler sensorimotor representations, the ones we use to plan our own actions and intentions and to observe and understand the actions and intentions of others.

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