Our Research
The Allen Institute for Brain Science was established in 2003 with a goal to accelerate neuroscience research worldwide with the release of large-scale, publicly available atlases of the brain.
By cataloging and genetically profiling cell types of the brain with incredible precision and detail, we are working to improve our fundamental understanding of brain development, evolution, and disease.
Using a team science approach, we are exploring the mammalian brain at a molecular level and sharing our insights with the world. We do this through advanced single-cell molecular analysis techniques, such as single-cell RNA sequencing and electrophysiology, combined with cutting-edge imaging technologies that provide a comprehensive view of how our brains are organized; what their cellular makeup is; how those cells connect, develop, and function; and the complex relationship between these factors.
Read below to learn about our major research focus areas.
Research Focus Areas
Our Research Principles
- Big Science – We tackle large-scale ambitious projects and collect massive high-quality datasets.
- Open Science – Our data and science resources are shared openly to accelerate discovery.
- Team Science – Our multidisciplinary teams bring specialized and varied perspectives to the scientific challenges we face.
By examining brain cell types and connections across species at a refined level and at the most comprehensive scale – we are working towards understanding the structure and function of the human brain itself.
Featured Resources
High-resolution anatomical atlases with closely related complete and high-quality datasets that enrich the atlases. These provide a common reference framework that accelerates discovery, supports tool development, and enables comparison across studies and species.
Access tutorials and how-to resources for a wide variety of brain map atlases and datasets in this index. Search for relevant content via keywords and category filters. Learn how to use our tools to their full potential with step-by-step walkthroughs and guidance.
Access documentation for a wide variety of brain map atlases and datasets in this index. Search for relevant content via keywords and category filters. Learn how to use our tools to their full potential to advance your research.
Have a Specific Question or need more help? Check out our Community Forum
Become part of a supportive community created by scientists for scientists. Find answer to your own questions and help your colleagues use brain-map resources to their full extend with Community Forum's diverse content.
Science Programs at Allen Institute
Many Endeavors
The mission of the Allen Institute is to understand the principles that govern life, and to advance health. Our creative and multi-dimensional teams focus on answering some of the biggest questions in bioscience.
Learn more on alleninstitute.org.
