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

14.09.2026
 

Our WEAVE dream team brought research on Self-Other Distinction to the 8th International Congress on Borderline Personality Disorder and Allied...
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 Media

15.07.2026
 

Keine Sommer mehr wie damals?
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 Faculty News

11.09.2026
 

Veranstaltung der Forschungsgruppe Visualization and Data Analysis am 17. September
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01.09.2026
 

The SCAN-Unit is looking for a full time postdoc, please find all details here:...
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20.06.2026
 

Politics Under the Spell of Emotions
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10.09.2026
 

Grant Mixer und Podiumsdiskussion am 23. September
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01.09.2026
 

Curious to know the answer (even if it is preliminary): read on

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09.05.2026
 

“A collaboration of several SCAN Unit members with colleagues at the University of Birmingham on the study ‘Psychological interventions that decrease...
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09.09.2026
 

Bis zu € 20.000 Förderung für innovative Technologien mit Bezug zu einer oder mehreren der "grünen" EU-Missionen
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