Studies the history of the brain sciences. His books include Origins of Neuroscience (1994) and Minds Behind the Brain: A History of the Pioneers and their Discoveries (2000). His journal articles cover a range of historical topics including the discovery of cerebral dominance, the brain science behind Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, and the recognition of affective changes in multiple sclerosis. Professor Finger is currently working on a book on Benjamin Franklin's medicine.