Supported by the Flemish Government, NERF looks into fundamental neuroscientific questions through collaborative, interdisciplinary research combining nanoelectronics with neurobiology. It intends to push the boundaries of science, by zooming in on the working of neurons at an unprecedented level of detail. In the long run, NERF will generate new insights in the functional mapping of the brain, as  well as research methodologies and technologies for medical applications, i.e. diagnostics and treatment of disorders of the central and peripheral nervous system.

NERF is organized around teams of top-notch researchers doing world-class basic research. They will be able to work closely together with a wide range of experts from the 3 founding fathers, providing a unique leverage. By 2014, NERF aims to expand its team to about 50 international top-researchers. NERF starts off with a 3 million euro research grant from the Flemish Government for the first 3 years. IMEC, VIB and K.U.Leuven equally invest in NERF.