How do we understand others?

What are the neural bases of our emotions?

How is our social behavior shaped by the brain?

 

These are just some of the questions the SCAN-Unit (Social, Cognitive, and Affective Neuroscience Unit) has been investigating since its formation in 2010. We are a group of international researchers who combine psychological theory with cutting edge neuroscientific methodology to study the biological basis of human's social and emotional life.

Our special research focus lies on the neuroscience of empathy. We have made and continue to make essential contributions to our understanding of how people share the feelings of others and take their point of view. This research enterprise is complemented by research activities in the fields of decision making, moral behavior, and mental health.

Further information on the research we do.

Information on our lab mission. 

 News

11.04.2026
 

The SCAN Unit made a strong impact through contributions across social neuroscience, clinical psychology, and climate-related research, demonstrating...
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 Media

13.03.2026
 

Studie in Zeitschrift "La Repubblica" zitiert

Preprint einer Studie von Magdalena Boch (incoming Tenure Track Social Cognition) und Claus Lamm mit Kolleginnen der Veterinärmedizinischen...
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 Faculty News

15.04.2026
 

Der Arbeitsbereich Gesundheitspsychologie interviewt Expert*innen und gibt Einblicke in ein vielseitiges Berufsfeld
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27.03.2026
 

Lab head Claus Lamm gave a public outreach talk in the framework of the FWF Science Lecture series at VHS Donaustadt on the topic of stress and...
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26.02.2026
 

Lab head Claus Lamm was interviewed for a full feature prime time science documentary in German TV 3Sat on the emotion of anger and its individual and...
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10.04.2026
 

Am 24. April im Hauptgebäude der Universität Wien
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25.03.2026
 

Haben Sie sich schon einmal gefragt, wo unser Gehirn die Grenze zwischen „mir“ und „dir“ zieht? Oder wie Empathie funktioniert – und ob sie sich...
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12.02.2026
 

In the segment “Pain, go away”

 

 
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25.03.2026
 

Internationales Fachbereichsranking
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