Laboratory in Principles of Neuroscience

This course introduces undergraduate students to modern methods of analysis applied to the activity of single neurons, the synaptic connections between neurons, and the dynamics of networks of neurons underlying learning and decision-making. Methods include intracellular and extracellular recording of neural activity at scales from single to hundreds of neurons; the application of optogenetic approaches to manipulate neuronal function and behavior; and noninvasive measurement of human cognitive information processing using EEG and fMRI. The capstone of the course is a 2-week independent research project designed and carried out by students.