Network: Human chemical communication

• Applicant: Privatdozentin Dr. Helene Loos
• Subject Area: Biological Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience ; Sensory and Behavioural Biology ; Biological and Biomimetic Chemistry ; Cognitive, Systems and Behavioural Neurobiology
• Term: since 2020
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 438038525

Chemical communication is a phenomenon that has been largely neglected in humans. However, in the last two decades we have started to understand that human chemical communication is functional, and there is growing evidence that chemical signatures emitted by the human body affect behaviour and social interaction. The interdisciplinary network “Human chemical communication” aims to foster and bundle research activities in this fast-growing field of research on a German and European level. To achieve this aim, the network plans to publish a joint vision paper and to elaborate a joint research agenda and concepts for methodological standards. Furthermore, we have plans to enhance collaboration within the network by preparing an application for a European research grant, and outside the network by integrating scientists from other fields into its activities and research plans. In sum, the network will contribute to expand our knowledge on human chemical communication, and to set new benchmarks in the rigour of both theoretical and methodological approaches that will have wide and lasting impact in the field.

• DFG Programme: Scientific Networks