PCST's research agenda combines the exploration of  underlying neurobiological processes with the quest for the conceptual frontiers of human thinking. The aim is to allow for the two approaches to shed light on each other thus creating potential for new perspectives and insights.

The study of thinking requires the collaboration of scientists from a diverse range of fields and PCST is intended to provide a supportive infrastructure for crossing disciplinary boundaries and implementing multi-disciplinary research on human thinking.

The center draws on modern imaging techniques as well as on more conventional behavioral approaches and has its own EEG laboratory. The empirical work is complemented by philosophical methods.

The long-term agenda is to develop a multi-layer theory of thinking. To date, research projects revolve around six broad themes addressing different aspects and levels of investigation.