Prof. Patrik Vuilleumier is a neurologist who uses brain imaging techniques (such as functional magnetic resonance imaging, fMRI) to study the brain mechanisms controlling emotion, perception, and action, as well as their links with consciousness. After an initial training in neurology and neuropsychology in Geneva and Lausanne, he continued his research in cognitive neuroscience at the University of California at Davis (1997-1999), then in neuroimaging at University College London (1999-2002). He is now the director of the Laboratory of Neurology and Cognitive Imaging at the University Medical Center of Geneva, in connection with the Neurology Department of the University Hospital of Geneva. His current research focuses on the neural circuits in the human brain that allow emotional signals to influence attention and behavior, as well as the effect of brain damage and psychiatric illness on emotion, perception, and consciousness.