Course Description

Dive into the fascinating world of neuroscience with this intermediate-level course offered by EPFLx. "Brain and Behavior: From Neuron to Network" is an immersive exploration of the intricate relationship between the brain's structure and its role in governing behavior. This comprehensive neuroscience course delves deep into the fundamental building blocks of the mammalian brain, unraveling the mysteries of neuronal networks and their impact on sensory processing, decision-making, and motor output.

What Students Will Learn

• Fundamental aspects of neuroscience related to mammalian brain function
• Biophysical mechanisms of electrical signaling in neurons
• Synaptic mechanisms underlying neuronal computations
• Modern methods for studying mammalian brain function in vivo
• Neuronal network function underlying sensory perception, sensorimotor integration, and learning

Prerequisites

To succeed in this course, students should have a basic knowledge (High school / 1st year University level) of physics, chemistry, biology, and mathematics. This foundation will help in understanding the complex concepts presented throughout the course.

Course Content

• Structure and function of synapses and neurons in the mammalian brain
• Neuronal network dynamics and interactions
• Excitatory glutamatergic and inhibitory GABAergic neurons
• Biophysical mechanisms of neuronal signaling
• Synaptic organization and plasticity
• Sensory processing and its impact on behavioral decisions
• Motor output and sensorimotor integration
• Modern techniques for studying brain function in vivo
• Neuronal computations and information processing
• Brain structure and function relationships

Who This Course Is For

This course is ideal for intermediate-level students, researchers, and professionals interested in deepening their understanding of neuroscience. It's particularly suited for those who want to bridge the gap between basic neuroscience concepts and more advanced topics in brain function and behavior. Medical students, biology majors, psychology students, and anyone fascinated by the workings of the brain will find this course invaluable.

Real-World Applications

The knowledge and skills gained from this neuroscience course have numerous real-world applications:

1. Medical research: Understanding brain function is crucial for developing treatments for neurological disorders.
2. Artificial Intelligence: Insights into neuronal networks can inform the development of more advanced AI systems.
3. Psychology and mental health: Knowledge of brain-behavior relationships can enhance therapeutic approaches.
4. Education: Understanding how the brain processes information can lead to improved learning strategies.
5. Drug development: Insights into synaptic mechanisms can aid in the creation of new pharmaceuticals.
6. Neuroengineering: This knowledge can be applied to develop brain-computer interfaces and neuroprosthetics.
7. Cognitive science: Enhancing our understanding of decision-making processes and consciousness.

By mastering the concepts of neuronal signaling, brain structure and function, and neuronal dynamics, students will be well-equipped to contribute to cutting-edge research and innovations in various fields related to neuroscience and beyond.