Two students make a heart shape with their fingers
© SIMONE REUKAUF FOTOGRAFIE
A working group of researchers discussing in the computer center.
© SIMONE REUKAUF FOTOGRAFIE
A lecturer explains something on the blackboard, the students look on with interest.
© SIMONE REUKAUF FOTOGRAFIE
Students are working in the virtual reality lab. You can see screens and a person wearing VR glasses and participating in an experiment.
© SIMONE REUKAUF FOTOGRAFIE
An EEG experiment with a toddler. The child sits wearing an EEG cap on his mother's lap and interacts with a hand puppet operated by the professor.
© SIMONE REUKAUF FOTOGRAFIE
A researcher is working on a computer. A chimpanzee can be seen on the screen.
© SIMONE REUKAUF FOTOGRAFIE
A scene from a class. The professor shows something on the digital whiteboard and the students watch with interest.
© SIMONE REUKAUF FOTOGRAFIE
A student holds a brain model in her hand and smiles at the camera.
© SIMONE REUKAUF FOTOGRAFIE
Three students look cheerful
© SIMONE REUKAUF FOTOGRAFIE

Institute of Cognitive Science

Welcome to the Institute of Cognitive Science! Here, we are dedicated to researching cognition and intelligent behavior across various disciplines. Our team of researchers works hand in hand to gain deeper insights into the mysteries of “thinking.” Our goal is to use this knowledge to promote advances in health, education, and technology. Join us as we dive into the fascinating world of cognitive science!

Studierende arbeiten im Virtual Reality Lab an den Computern.
© SIMONE REUKAUF FOTOGRAFIE

Cognitive Science in Osnabrück: : Research at the forefront

At the IKW, we're pushing boundaries in areas like animal communication, brain-inspired chips, and the exciting field of NeuroAI.

 Overview of the research areas
Three students look cheerful
© SIMONE REUKAUF FOTOGRAFIE

Want to understand the mind and build a better future? : Study Cognitive Science!

Explore the intersection of philosophy, AI, psychology, and neuroscience in this dynamic program.

 Information for prospective students
Selfie of a group of students - Text: "freshies Welcome!"
© Simone Reukauf Fotografie

Information on the first weeks : Welcome to Cognitive Science!

Dear New Students, welcome to Cognitive Science at Osnabrück University! The institute staff and faculty are delighted to welcome you in person soon. 
You'll find all the essential information for your first few weeks on the student body page.  
Get ready for an exciting time as a CogSci student – also known as "Coxis".

Have a good start - and have fun!

News

© Jens Raddatz

Our new professor of cognitive modeling : Welcome, Prof. Weber!

We are delighted to announce that Professor Dr. Lilian Weber will be joining the Institute of Cognitive Science as Professor of  Cognitive Modeling starting in the winter semester of 2025/26!

Professor Weber researches how people adapt their perceptual and cognitive processes to changing circumstances. She combines formal theory building in cognitive science with neuroscientific intervention techniques such as pharmaceuticals and brain stimulation.

The insights gained from this research are relevant to questions in Artificial Intelligence as well as mental health – for example, how we can build more flexible, “smarter” AI and which brain processes underlie a loss of flexibility.

© Kayla Kolff

East African Chimpanzees Treat Wounds with Insects : Fascinating Behavior

A new study by Dr. Kayla Kolff from the research group led by  Prof. Dr. Simone Pika reveals fascinating insights into the behavior of wild chimpanzees in Uganda. The animals appear to use flying insects for wound care, applying them to their own injuries and those of other group members. This observation motivates further research into the animals' medical intelligence and the origins of human healing practices.

 

 Press release (in German)

 Publication in Scientific Reports

 Radio Report on Deutschlandfunk (in German)

Explore further:

The team of the "Student Journal" show happily pictures
© Simone Reukauf Fotografie

Insights into the topics and projects of the students : Spotlight on Student Work

Here, students present their work: seminar papers, project reports, interviews, and more!

 To the Student Journal
Zwei Moderatorinnen des Kaleidopodcast Teams machen eine Aufnahme
© Imogen Hüsing / Elisa Palme

Podcast on topics related to cognitive science : About researchers and what motivates them

Immerse yourself in the world of cognitive science! With a blend of technical depth, curiosity, and accessibility, the project has established itself as an innovative example of student science communication.

 To the Website of the Podcast
Einer Studentin wird EEG abgelegt.
© Simone Reukauf Fotografie

Studying in an excellent research environment : Research experience during studies

Early research experience in an excellent research environment—that is one of the special features of studying Cognitive Science at the Osnabrück University.

 Details about research experience during studies