broader impacts

Press

AI head. (Getty Images / Andriy Onufriyenko)
Jun 08, 2025  |   Salon

We’re offloading mental tasks to AI. It could be making us stupid

Whether we lose some of the skills artificial intelligence performs for us largely depends on how we use this tech
A collage of illustrations of a brain, neurons and elements of computer chips
Feb 26, 2025  |  Science News

More brainlike computers could change AI for the better

New brain-inspired hardware, architectures and algorithms could lead to more efficient, more capable forms of AI.
Elephant fish swimming
Feb 10, 2025  |  The Harvard Gazette

What electric fish can teach scientists about NeuroAI

Modeling their behaviors may help in the development of new AI systems.
Graphic of colorful, interlocking puzzle pieces, symbolizing the complex connections and interactions within neural networks in the brain.
Aug 07, 2024  |  The Transmitter

Neural-network analysis posits how brains build skills

Discrete computational subunits may offer mix-and-match motifs for cognition...
A visual of a digital interface showcasing green code and outlines of weapon schematics, representing the integration of artificial intelligence in weaponry.
Aug 07, 2024  |  Harvard Medical School News & Research

The risks of artificial intelligence in weapons design

Researchers outline dangers of developing AI-powered autonomous weapons...
An image depicting a brain composed of circuitry and digital elements, illustrating the concept of artificial neural networks.
Jul 31, 2024  |  BrainFacts.org

Putting artificial neural networks to the task

Inspired by the human brain, artificial neural networks are the heart of artificial intelligence...
A portrait of Dr. Kanaka Rajan smiling
Apr 26, 2024  |  Technology Networks

Computational neuroscience and the joy of discovery with Dr. Kanaka Rajan

In this interview, Kanaka explores her proudest work, her motivations, and shares advice for young female scientists entering an area of research that remains male-dominated.
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Mar 27, 2024  |  Technology Networks

Women in science: Motivation, challenges and advice

Kanaka and other leading female scientists discuss why they were drawn to science as well as share tips for women looking to embark on a career in STEMM.
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Dec 18, 2023  |  The Transmitter

Is the brain uncontrollable, like the weather?

The brain may be chaotic. Does that mean our efforts to control it are doomed?
A white 3D model of a brain on a light blue background, connected by dashed lines to yellow 3D brain models.
Dec 04, 2023  |  Harvard Medical School News & Research

Building models of the brain to take them apart

Detailed computational models of the brain are being developed to better understand its complex functions. Researchers aim to dissect and analyze brain mechanisms by simulating neural circuits, potentially leading to breakthroughs in understanding neurological diseases.
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Jun 11, 2023  |  FENS Cast

Neuroscience and AI: On the limits of biology with Kanaka Rajan

The intersection of neuroscience and AI, and the limitations and potential of both fields. Biological insights can enhance AI models, and AI can, in turn, provide new perspectives on brain functions.
 A whimsical, colorful illustration of a scientist in a white coat standing at a spaceship-type control panel, looking out into the night sky.
Mar 09, 2023  |  Nature

In AI, is bigger always better?

A debate on whether larger AI models lead to better performance. Bigger models often show improved results, but they come with significant computational costs and diminishing returns, raising questions about the efficiency and practicality of scaling.
A complex digital network of interconnected blue and white neural pathways set against a dark background
Mar 06, 2023  |  Neuro Central

Bridging neurobiology and artificial intelligence with Kanaka Rajan

Efforts to integrate neurobiological insights with AI development. Researchers aim to create more efficient and adaptable AI systems by mimicking brain structures and functions, potentially revolutionizing technology and medicine.
A person wrapped in a blanket, sleeping.

Feb 21, 2023  |  Science News Explores

Sleep helps AI models learn new things without forgetting old ones

Parallels between human sleep and AI training are drawn to explain how simulating sleep processes in AI can prevent catastrophic forgetting. This approach helps AI systems retain old knowledge while acquiring new information, enhancing their learning capabilities.
A photo of Dr. Rajan giving a presentation with a panel, in front of a crowd
Aug 06, 2022  |  FENS News

The tale of two intelligence fields: AI and Neuroscience

Conversation on the convergence of AI and neuroscience, highlighting how insights from brain research inform AI development, and vice versa. Mutual benefits and the potential for groundbreaking advancements in understanding intelligence and creating innovative technologies are discussed.
Dr. Kanaka Rajan standing in a bright room, looking poised and confident
Jun 22, 2022  |  Mount Sinai

Computational neuroscientist opens doors for new ideas and talent to thrive

Discusses the role of computational neuroscientists in fostering innovation and nurturing new talent. Focuses on their contributions to advancing the field through mentorship, interdisciplinary collaboration, and pioneering research that bridges theoretical and practical applications.
A hand-drawn-style portrait of Dr. Kanaka Rajan, paired with text about her personal and professional journey in computational neuroscience.
Jun 15, 2022  |  Zuckerman Institute

The science life: Kanaka Rajan

A profile of Dr. Kanaka Rajan, detailing her journey and achievements in computational neuroscience. Describes her research focus, contributions to the field, and the impact of her work on understanding brain functions and developing AI models are described.
A group of scientists in white lab coats engaged in a discussion in laboratory setting
Feb 28, 2022  |  Hello Bio

How to successfully collaborate with a computational neuroscientist

Strategies for effective collaboration with computational neuroscientists. Emphasis on the importance of interdisciplinary communication, setting clear goals, and understanding the unique challenges and opportunities that arise from integrating computational and experimental approaches.
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Nov 14, 2021  |  Quanta Magazine

To be energy-efficient, brains predict their perceptions

Investigates the brain's energy efficiency through predictive processing. Explains how the brain minimizes energy expenditure by anticipating sensory inputs and adjusting neural responses accordingly, offering insights into fundamental principles of brain function and potential applications in AI.
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Nov 02, 2021  |  Stories of WiN

Dr. Kanaka Rajan on modularity of the brain, neural dynamical motifs, and learning ‘true grit’

Highlights Dr. Kanaka Rajan's research on brain modularity and neural dynamics and her findings on how the brain's modular structure and dynamic motifs facilitate learning and adaptation. Discusses how this research sheds light on fundamental neural processes and resilience.
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Oct 11, 2021  |  TWIML

Rebuilding the brain from AI ‘Legos’ with Kanaka Rajan

Outlines Dr. Kanaka Rajan's innovative approach to modeling brain functions using AI components. By assembling AI ‘Legos’, she aims to reconstruct complex neural circuits, enhance understanding of brain mechanisms and inform the development of more sophisticated AI systems.
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Oct 03, 2021  |  TWIML

Modeling human cognition with RNNs and curriculum learning with Kanaka Rajan

Exploration of recurrent neural networks (RNNs) and curriculum learning to model human cognition. Discusses Dr. Kanaka Rajan's research on how these AI techniques can simulate cognitive processes, offering new perspectives on brain functions and improving AI learning algorithms.
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Jul 07, 2021  |  Lady Scientist Podcast

Dr. Kanaka Rajan, computational neuroscientist & Assistant Professor at Mt. Sinai

An overview of Dr. Kanaka Rajan's career and contributions as a computational neuroscientist and assistant professor at Mt. Sinai. Highlights her research achievements, educational background, and the impact of her work on the fields of neuroscience and AI.
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Aug 09, 2020  |  People Behind the Science

566: Dr. Kanaka Rajan: Creating computational models to determine how the brain accomplishes complex tasks

Discusses Dr. Kanaka Rajan's efforts to simulate complex neural processes, uncover how the brain performs intricate tasks, and inform the design of advanced AI systems.
A stylized illustration of researchers sitting on giant brain structures, each one using computers and tracing neural pathways, symbolizing the mapping of information flow within the brain.
May 27, 2020  |  Simons Foundation

Tracking information across the brain

Methods for mapping information flow in the brain are discussed. Highlights techniques used to trace neural pathways and monitor brain activity, providing insights into how information is processed, stored, and utilized across different brain regions.
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Nov 26, 2019  |  Brain Inspired

BI 054 Kanaka Rajan: How do we switch behaviors?

Dr. Kanaka Rajan's research on behavioral switching in the brain. Findings on the neural mechanisms that enable the transition between different behaviors, shedding light on adaptive functions and potential applications in neuroprosthetics and AI behavior modeling.