Welcome to the Department of Fundamental Neurosciences (DNF)

The Department of fundamental neurosciences (DNF) is part of the Faculty of biology and medicine (FBM) at the University of Lausanne (UNIL). Its mission is to provide quality teaching for students and a cutting-edge research environment for neuroscientists.

Its research program focuses on gaining a better understanding of how brain works and its role in various biological, cognitive and pathological processes, from molecules to humans.

At the heart of a rich neuroscience community on the UNIL campus, in the Lausanne area and in the Lake Geneva region, the DNF is ideally positioned to propel its vision of integrated multidisciplinary research. Its privileged interactions with the University hospital of Canton de Vaud (CHUV) enable the DNF to maintain a translational focus fueled by, and oriented towards, the clinic. As a result, and also thanks to the excellence of its research projects and collaborations, the DNF enjoys an international reputation.

The missions

To promote a basic research that is high quality, creative, open and always oriented towards the benefit of society
To provide a world-class, state-of-the-art, biosphere-friendly research environment
To support the development and hosting of technology service platforms
To provide stimulating academic career opportunities for the talents of tomorrow, while ensuring equality of opportunity
To maintain teaching programmes of the highest quality that are constantly evolving with the advancement of knowledge
To communicate the progress made in neuroscience to the general public