Rong Mao

My research focuses on sleep and consciousness. Currently, I lead a Wellcome-funded project investigating brain networks underlying the link between sleep/ circadian rhythm disruption and mental disorders in mice. Our goal is to advance understanding of the prevalent non-restorative sleep and mental disorders, while also identifying neural correlates of consciousness (NCC) and testing predictions from theories of consciousness. Besides, I explore torpor/ hibernation in rodents, asking whether these states involve any conscious experience. My study integrates methods including electrophysiology, opto- and chemogenetics, behavioural assays, and immunohistochemistry. Previously, I obtained my PhD with Profs Chiara Cirelli and also Giulio Tononi at Center for Sleep and Consciousness, USA. My research provided the first direct evidence supporting the notion that NCC reside in the cerebral cortex, by reviving mice from coma through optogenetic activation of cortical neurons. I also demonstrated with colleagues the first successful application of ‘consciousness meter’ in non-human species that detected the level of consciousness across all physiological states of wake and sleep as well as anaesthesia. Prior to doctorate, I completed my Bachelor of Science at University of Science and Technology of China and thesis at Yale University.