For more than three decades, Prof Dr Dagmar Timmann has been working on deciphering the function of the human cerebellum, about whose influences on the other areas of the brain we know comparatively little.

To honor her commitment, Dagmar Timmann was now awarded the DGKN's Grand Research Award by the German Society for Clinical Neurophysiology and Functional Imaging (DGKN) at its 2024 Congress for Clinical Neuroscience in Frankfurt.

In her work, professor Timman is particularly interested in the pathophysiology of the cerebellum in patients with ataxia. Ataxia is a disorder in which a person's motor skills are altered or limited. The aim of the research team is to understand the contribution of the human cerebellum to motor, cognitive and emotional functions.

 In addition to functional imaging with 3-T magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), the 7Tesla MRI scanner at the ELH is also frequently used in the scientists' studies. As part of the CRC 1280, the scientist is currently focusing on so-called "extinction learning" and the extent to which the cerebellum is involved in learning and unlearning fear.

Prof Dr Timmann has had a lasting impact on the research field of cerebellar functions and has contributed to a significant improvement in the understanding of cerebellar diseases, said Prof Dr Christian Grefkes-Hermann, jury member and President of the DGKN 2023/24.

 The German Society for Clinical Neurophysiology and Functional Imaging (DGKN) promotes research into the brain and nerves, ensures the quality of diagnosis and treatment of neurological diseases and drives the development of innovative therapies.

 The award ceremony took place on 7 March. Our warmest congratulations!