Course Description

Embark on an exciting journey into the fascinating world of behavioral neuroscience with this comprehensive online course. Delve deep into cutting-edge scientific research on mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression, exploring both mouse models and human applications. This course offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in evaluating, collecting, and analyzing behavioral data from mouse experiments, providing invaluable insights into the complexities of the brain and behavior.

What students will learn from the course:

• Critical evaluation of behavioral tests for anxiety and depression in laboratory mice
• Data collection and analysis techniques using mouse videos
• Interpretation of results in the context of human psychiatric disorders
• Key characteristics of anxiety and depression in humans and animal models
• Comparison of compulsive-like, anxiety-like, and depression-like behaviors in mice to human behaviors
• Formulation of original research hypotheses
• Understanding the importance of basic research in contributing to animal models and human mental health

Pre-requisites or skills necessary to complete the course:

• Completion of NEURO1x: Behavioral Neuroscience: Foundations of Compulsive Behaviors
• Accompanying Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) training
• No objections to using mice in research
• Intermediate-level knowledge in biology and life sciences

What the course will cover:

• Introduction to anxiety and depression in neuroscience research
• Elevated zero maze test for anxiety assessment
• Forced swim test for depression assessment
• Data collection techniques using mouse videos
• Statistical analysis and visualization of behavioral data
• Interpretation of results in the context of human psychiatric disorders
• Comparison of mouse and human behaviors
• Formulation of research hypotheses
• Discussion of basic research's contribution to mental health understanding

Who this course is for:

This course is ideal for students, researchers, and professionals in the fields of neuroscience, psychology, biology, and related disciplines who are interested in advancing their understanding of behavioral neuroscience and its applications to mental health. It is particularly suitable for those who wish to gain practical experience in research methods and data analysis in the context of anxiety and depression studies.

How learners can use these skills in the real world:

1. Conducting research in academic or pharmaceutical settings
2. Developing new treatments for mental health disorders
3. Improving animal welfare in research settings
4. Enhancing understanding of human behavior and mental health
5. Contributing to the development of more effective psychiatric interventions
6. Advancing the field of neuroscience through innovative research approaches
7. Applying critical thinking and analytical skills to various scientific disciplines

Syllabus:

By enrolling in this course, you'll gain a deep understanding of behavioral neuroscience research methods, data analysis techniques, and the critical role of animal models in advancing our knowledge of human mental health. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your personal and professional development in this cutting-edge field!