Daniel Van Zant Explores How AI Could Help Test Brain Function Theories
Ph.D. student Daniel Van Zant is developing an automated AI platform to test neuroscience theories using the fruit fly connectome — a complete 3D map of every neuron and synaptic connection in a fruit fly’s brain. The platform enables virtual experiments before costly laboratory work.
Van Zant, an NIH Ruth L. Kirschstein Fellow working with Dr. Elan Barenholtz, is affiliated with the Stiles-Nicholson Brain Institute, the MPCR Lab, and the FAU Center for Future Mind. His prior work with NIDA achieved over 90% accuracy in predicting fentanyl overdoses.
“My ultimate research goal is to accelerate the development of more robust theories about brain function, which could lead to improved success rates in clinical neuroscience trials.”