Gokul Rajan

Profile

I am a neuroscientist interested in the principles that govern neural circuit function and how these circuits change across the lifespan and in disease. One major focus of my research is the neural and molecular basis of memory and brain aging, questions that I address using small vertebrate models that provide direct access to the intact brain. In particular, I have helped pioneer Danionella, a miniature transparent fish that develops without a skull roof, as a model for systems neuroscience. This unique biology provides unprecedented optical access to the living vertebrate brain, creating opportunities to link neural circuit dynamics to their underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms.

A complementary direction of my research is to understand neural circuit function and dysfunction more broadly, particularly in the context of disease. I am interested in addressing these questions in experimentally accessible vertebrate models and extending them to stem-cell-derived human neural organoids. My goal is to use principles uncovered in intact vertebrate circuits to guide the study of function and dysfunction in human neural circuits.

I earned a Master’s in Biotechnology from IIT Bombay and worked across a range of biological systems including bacteria, viruses and insects, using approaches spanning microbiology, genetic engineering, bioinformatics and neurophysiology. I then carried out my PhD in Neuroscience at Institut Curie and Sorbonne University in Paris, where I investigated how differences in neural circuitry give rise to distinct navigational strategies in closely related vertebrate species. My publications can be found on my Google Scholar profile.

Inspired by Danionella and the regions where it is naturally found, I also started the Danionella Prize — a small personal initiative supporting creative, curiosity-driven science that values bold questions, thoughtful reasoning and ingenuity over prestige or pedigree. One way to think about it is: how much new insight is generated per research dollar spent?

Expertise

My expertise spans genetic engineering, custom imaging system development, and data analytics. As part of my work, I have generated transgenic animals (the scintillating brain activity in the background is recorded from one such animal I made), built automated high-speed image acquisition systems, developed behavioral assays, applied optogenetics, used state-of-the-art 2-photon, 1-photon scanning, and light-sheet microscopes, and created custom widefield imaging tools along with pipelines to analyze large datasets.

I care about public understanding of science. I have authored many popular science articles in magazines and newspaper. A non-fiction book has been in the works for a few years now. Soon(tm).

Hobbies

I’m passionate about exploring the world — whether it’s trekking through nature, immersing myself in vibrant cultures, or delving into the stories of historical landmarks. My curiosity extends to literature and cinema, with a particular fondness for thrillers and thought-provoking non-fiction. Stand-up comedy, especially sharp observational humor, is another source of joy for me. I also enjoy learning and tinkering, and have built a few useful digital tools.

History is a friend — I love delving into everything from ancient civilizations to modern events. Reflecting on the past that has shaped our present world is an enriching experience to me. Occasionally, you can even catch me leading a unique science history walk through the Latin Quarter in Paris (now archived and occasionally available upon request), where I share my passion for the stories behind our scientific milestones.

Contact

You can reach out to me here: gokulrajan[at]outlook[dot]com

• Twitter
• Linkedin
• Github
• Substack
• Google Scholar

You can request a short 30-minute meeting with me using the button below. This is to save some back and forth emails. Send me a message if it’s too early or late in your time zone!

Elements

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