What is this collection about?
With the emergence of research on the neural correlates of consciousness, the field has grown rapidly in recent decades. To further advance understanding, there is increasing focus on integrating neural evidence with phenomenological and behavioural approaches as well as computational modelling across different states of consciousness.
This cross-journal Collection—led by Nature Communications, Communications Psychology and Scientific Reports—welcomes manuscripts that highlight neural models of consciousness. Topics include, but are not limited to, neural correlates of consciousness (including self-consciousness), theories of consciousness, meditation, and conscious perception. We welcome research in both human and non-human species and are also open to studies involving patients that investigate aspects of consciousness. Submissions are open until 28 February 2027.
Why is this collection important?
Consciousness science is entering a period of rapid development, driven by advances in neuroscience, theory, and technology. At the same time, the field faces ongoing challenges, including competing theoretical frameworks and limited consensus on fundamental questions.
This Collection provides a platform to bring together interdisciplinary approaches that combine neural data, behavioural insights, and computational models. By encouraging integrative and data-driven research, it aims to support progress toward a more unified and cumulative understanding of conscious experience. The Collection also highlights emerging directions, such as linking neural mechanisms to subjective awareness and exploring how different states of consciousness are represented in the brain.
Through its cross-journal format, the Collection offers broad visibility and encourages collaboration across disciplines, helping to shape the future of consciousness research.
Why submit to a collection?
Collections like this one help attract and promote high-quality science. They are led by Guest Editors and internal In-House Editors and supported by a dedicated team of Commissioning Editors and Managing Editors at Springer Nature. Collection manuscripts typically see higher citations, downloads, and Altmetric scores, and provide a one-stop-shop on a cutting-edge topic of interest.
Who is involved?
Communications Psychology is edited by both in-house professional editors and Editorial Board Members.
Guest Editor for Communications Psychology
Olaf Blanke, MD, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne, Switzerland
Olaf Blanke is Bertarelli Foundation Chair of Cognitive Neuroprosthetics at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL), where he directs the Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience at Geneva’s Campus Biotech. He founded and directed EPFL’s Center for Neuroprosthetics and is Adjunct Professor at Geneva University Hospital. Blanke’s research focuses on the neuroscience of consciousness and embodiment, human augmentation and personalized medicine. Blanke pioneered robotics and virtual reality technology in neuroscience of consciousness studies and cognitive psychology. His medical-translational activities are dedicated to preventive, diagnostic and therapeutic procedures and devices in neurodegenerative disorders (Parkinson’s disease, Dementia), mental health and well-being.
Nature Communications is edited by in-house professional editors.
Scientific Reports is managed by in-house professional editors and edited by Editorial Board Members.
Our editors work closely together to ensure the quality of our published papers and consistency in author experience.
How can I submit my paper?
Visit the Collection page to find out more about this collection and submit your article.