RUB has been recognized for its interdisciplinary approach to studying the brain and mind, combining neuroscience with psychology, cognitive science, and philosophy to understand brain function. RUB has made significant contributions to the field of computational neuroscience (CNS), particularly through its Institute for Neural Computation (Institut für Neuroinformatik, INI) and affiliated research groups. Multiple research groups at the Faculties of Psychology, Medicine, Biology and Biotechnology, and Electrical Engineering complement the theoretical expertise at the INI with experimental and engineering approaches.

The founding PIs established leadership in key areas of CNS research, demonstrated history of successful collaborations, complementary expertise spanning theoretical and experimental approaches, and strong commitment to advancing CNS research through collaborative initiatives, e.g., previous SFB 874, current FOR 2812 and SFB 1280, and future initiatives.