Valeri A. Makarov

About

Valeri A. Makarov is a computational neuroscientist whose research sits at the intersection of biologically inspired artificial intelligence, cognitive robotics, and spiking neural networks. His work focuses on translating principles of biological brain function — including spatial memory, cognitive mapping, and synaptic plasticity — into functional neural architectures capable of driving autonomous robotic behavior. Makarov's most influential contribution, "Spatial Properties of STDP in a Self-Learning Spiking Neural Network Enable Controlling a Mobile Robot" (2020, 105 citations), demonstrates how spike-timing-dependent plasticity can enable robots to learn navigation tasks without explicit programming, a landmark result bridging neuroscience and robotics. His broader body of work explores cognitive navigation in dynamic environments, semantic knowledge representation, and social learning through motor primitives, consistently advancing the case that brain-like computation offers superior flexibility over conventional AI approaches. Notably, his 2023 work on modular spiking neural networks edges toward the ambitious goal of brain-on-a-chip devices, reflecting his commitment to long-horizon scientific questions. With contributions spanning hexapod locomotion control, cellular automata-based navigation, and generalized cognitive maps, Makarov has established himself as a versatile and forward-thinking figure in neurorobotics and embodied cognition.

Research Focus

Key Achievements

Top Papers

1. 1
   Spatial Properties of STDP in a Self-Learning Spiking Neural Network Enable Controlling a Mobile Robot

   105 citations · 2020
2. 2
   Neural Network Architecture for Cognitive Navigation in Dynamic Environments

   47 citations · 2013
3. 3
   Spatial Memory in a Spiking Neural Network with Robot Embodiment

   28 citations · 2021
4. 4
   Prediction-for-CompAction: navigation in social environments using generalized cognitive maps

   26 citations · 2015
5. 5
   WAVES IN ISOTROPIC TOTALISTIC CELLULAR AUTOMATA: APPLICATION TO REAL-TIME ROBOT NAVIGATION

   15 citations · 2016
6. 6
   Semantic Knowledge Representation for Strategic Interactions in Dynamic Situations

   13 citations · 2020
7. 7
   Fast social-like learning of complex behaviors based on motor motifs

   12 citations · 2018
8. 8
   Spatial Computing in Modular Spiking Neural Networks with a Robotic Embodiment

   11 citations · 2023
9. 9
   Central Pattern Generator Incorporating The Actuator Dynamics For A Hexapod Robot

   11 citations · 2008
10. 10
    Limb Movement in Dynamic Situations Based on Generalized Cognitive Maps

    10 citations · 2017

Key Collaborators

Contact & Links