Dr. Shadlen studies neurons in the association cortex that transform information from the sensory cortex to give rise to interpretations, decisions, and plans for behavior. His experiments combine electrophysiology and behavioral and computational methods to advance our knowledge of higher brain function. Dr. Shadlen’s research on decision making exposes the neural mechanisms that support a wide range of cognitive functions of normal brains—what it is about a normal brain that makes us “not confused.” As a practicing neurologist, Dr. Shadlen believes that by elucidating the principles of cognitive neuroscience employed in decision-making, we will ultimately help patients with disorders affecting a wide range of higher cognitive functions affecting personality, ideation, volition, and awareness.He received Golden Brain Award in 2012.