Tim Viney

I investigate neural circuit mechanisms underlying spatial orientation and memory, and how selective vulnerability within these circuits contributes to the progession of Alzheimer’s disease and related neurodegenerative disorders. My laboratory combines systems neuroscience, neuroanatomy, electrophysiology, molecular profiling, and human neuropathology to define vulnerable neuronal and glial subpopulations. We aim to translate mechanistic insights into new strategies for earlier detection and therapeutic intervention. Research themes: Head direction circuits and spatial navigation; Circuit vulnerability in early stages of Alzheimer’s disease; Translational cellular and systems neuroscience; Neuronal coordination and modulation of attention/arousal.

[2026] Diversity and sensorimotor specialization of head direction cells in the mouse thalamus. Hijazi S. et al, (2026), Curr Biol [2026] Curing the brain: in search for new astrocyte-specific therapies. Verkhratsky A. et al, (2026), Exp Mol Med [2025] Pathological tau alters head direction signaling and induces spatial disorientation. Jiang S. et al, (2025), Cell Rep, 44 [2025] Transient juvenile demyelination impairs maturation and function of parvalbumin-positive interneurons in the prefrontal cortex. Hijazi SARA. et al, (2025), PLoS Biology [2025] Transient juvenile demyelination impairs maturation and function of parvalbumin-positive interneurons in the prefrontal cortex. Hijazi S. et al, (2025), PLoS Biol, 23 [2025] Novel in situ seeding immunodetection assay uncovers neuronal-driven