Students will build on their knowledge of research design and statistical analysis that they developed during their first year Introduction to Research Methods...

central nervous system|functional neuroanatomy|brain function|techniques in neuroscience

The module explores the structural organization and connectivity of the mammalian CNS, examining the synaptic and local-circuit architectures of selected brain...

The module explores the structural organization and connectivity of the mammalian CNS, examining the synaptic and local-circuit architectures of selected brain regions and relating them to their roles within more global behavioural ensembles. In each case, basic knowledge is assumed and the emphasis is on experimental evidence, structure/function relationships and clinical significance. The course focuses on understanding recent neuroscience research and techniques used in understanding how groups of neurons are functionally connected to execute or control selected sensory, motor or higher level functions (such as reward processing) within the central nervous system.

NEUR0020 Integrative systems neuroscience forms a bridge between our understanding of brain function at the cellular and molecular levels (addressed by modules such as PHOL0009 The Cellular Basis of Brain Function) and our understanding of animal and human behaviour at the cognitive level (addressed by modules such as NEUR0014 Neural Basis of Motivation and Learning). This module may also be of interest to students taking NEUR0016 (Neural Computation: Models of Brain Function). Training is provided in reading and analysing original research papers in neuroscience which forms an excellent transferable skill for other modules. NEUR0020 will be of value to all students of the nervous system, whether specialising in neuroscience, taking a neuroscience stream within a more general three-year BSc or four-year MSci, or intercalating an iBSc within the medical programme.

Indicative lecture topics:

Techniques in functional neuroanatomy
	Neurons and glia: structure and function
	Spinal motor processing
	Central motor processing
	Somatosensory processing, touch and itch
	Brainstem autonomic system
	Structure and function of reward circuits
	Olfactory circuits 
	Brain-wide mapping
	Studying cortical structure and function in man