NEU - Neuroscience

Neuroscience: NEU

Lower-Division Courses

NEU X19S. Topics in Neuroscience.

This course is used to record credit the student earns while enrolled at another institution in a program administered by the University's Study Abroad Office. Credit is recorded as assigned by the study abroad adviser in the Department of Neuroscience. University credit is awarded for work in an exchange program; it may be counted as coursework taken in residence. Transfer credit is awarded for work in an affiliated studies program.

Upper-Division Courses

NEU X20. Introduction to Neuroscience.

Introduction to the nervous system with an emphasis on brain organization, neuron physiology, perceptual systems, and motor systems. Designed for non-neuroscience majors.

NEU X29S. Topics in Neuroscience.

NEU X30. Neural Systems I.

Introduction to the nervous system with an emphasis on brain organization, neuron physiology, perceptual systems, and motor systems.

NEU X35. Neural Systems II.

Introduction to the nervous system with an emphasis on neural development and on the neural mechanisms of memory, emotions, and other higher cognitive functions.

NEU X37. Selected Topics in Neuroscience.

Topics include recent developments and research methods in the field of neuroscience.

NEU X37.3. Neuroscience for Plan II.

NEU X37.6. Rigor in Neuroscience.

Explore the application and integration of many different approaches, from molecules to behavior. Includes statistics, experimental design, and philosophy of science with a mixture of discussion and hands-on training.

NEU X40. Neural Systems III: Quantitative Tools.

Introduction to quantitative approaches central to the study of the brain, with an emphasis on mathematical and statistical methods required for the rigorous design and interpretation of neuroscience experiments and data.

NEU X61T. Comparative Animal Physiology.

Examine the physiology of organ systems in animal phyla, with special emphasis on the neural and behavioral adaptations of organisms to their environment.

NEU X65D. Principles of Drug Action.

Introduction to the basic principles of pharmacology; including how drugs get into the body, exert their actions, and are metabolized and excreted.

NEU X65E. Epigenetics of Neuroscience.

Explore how epigenetic modifications cause long-lasting changes in gene expression.

NEU X65L. Neurobiology Laboratory.

An introduction to physiological, morphological, and molecular techniques used for analysis of the nervous system. Experiments and computer simulations illustrate basics of information processing by the nervous system.

NEU X65M. Advanced Experimental Neurobiology.

Examine neocortical cell and circuit function through presentation and critique of research goals and strategies.

NEU X65N. Nerve Regeneration in Invertebrates and Vertebrates.

Explore use of nerve regeneration and degeneration in invertebrate vs vertebrate systems to synthesize concepts in neuroscience.

NEU X65P. Programming and Data Analysis for Modern Neuroscience.

Explore the basics of programming, statistics, and machine learning, and apply these techniques to the analysis of data from neuroscience experiments.

NEU X65T. Neurobiology of Disease.

The neurobiological basis of disorders of the brain, with the main focus on mental illness. Emphasizes the neural circuitries and neurochemical events that underlie specific mental processes and behaviors.

NEU X65W. Neurobiology of Addiction.

Study of the neurobiology of neurotransmitters, and the influence of alcohol and drugs of abuse on neurotransmitters.

NEU X66C. Ion Channels and the Molecular Physiology of Neuronal Signaling.

Explores the role of molecular conformational changes in higher-level neuronal function and sensory transduction, including the generation and regulation of diverse types of neuronal signaling characteristics. Emphasizes a quantitative approach and the use of models to study function.

NEU X66D. Synaptic Physiology and Plasticity.

Detailed study of the physiology of synaptic transmission in the mammalian central nervous system. Covers dendritic integration and various forms and mechanisms of synaptic plasticity.

NEU X66G. Functional and Synaptic Neuroanatomy.

Neuroanatomy and function of synapses as a basis for brain function and behavior. Examine the ultrastructure and function of synapses, dendrites and axons underlying basic synaptic transmission and plasticity. Laboratory projects involve three-dimensional reconstructions from serial section electron microscopy.

NEU X66L. Neuroimaging Laboratory.

Basic principles of image formation and techniques of fluorescent imaging and confocal laser-scanning microscopy. Includes image processing and analysis to extract quantitative information from digital images. Survey of imaging techniques, including electron microscopy and MRI.

NEU X66R. Rhythms in the Nervous System.

Explore the study of systems of oscillators in the nervous system including mechanisms of generation and theories about functions.

NEU X66S. Neuromolecular Genetics and Disease Laboratory.

Explores techniques used to study the molecular genetic basis for nervous system function and disease with a powerful invertebrate model system. Subjects will range from studying the conserved molecular basis for our senses and male/female-specific behaviors, to exploring how mutations of conserved neural genes cause neurological disorders, such as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease.

NEU X66T. Modeling and Theory in Neuroscience.

Examine the basic mathematical and computational tools central to the analysis of neural systems in a laboratory setting. Discuss linear algebra, differential equations, filtering, correlation, probability with an emphasis on quantitative methodology and applications to neuroscience.

NEU X66W. Neural Computation.

Examine why quantitative methods are so important in neuroscience. Learn how to apply basic mathematical concepts to neuroscience, with the goal of seeing the applications of these concepts more broadly and appreciating the interactions between neuroscience and other quantitative fields.

NEU X67C. Cellular and Molecular Bases of Neural Development.

Introduction to the principles by which the neural tube (brain and spinal cord) forms during embryonic development. Discuss the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the formation of a three-dimensional neural tube and its division into forebrain, midbrain, hindbrain, and spinal cord.

NEU X67F. Foundations of Human Neuroimaging.

Survey of methods for neuroimaging research. Describes the physics of MRI image acquisition, the physiology of neural responses, and the design and analysis of MRI studies.

NEU X67S. Analytical Skepticism.

Examine basic principles that allow accurate interpretation and depiction of scientific data, with an emphasis on notions of behavioral economics, probability and statistics, and experimental design.

NEU X67V. Evolutionary Neurobiology.

Examination of the nervous system in an evolutionary context.

NEU X70C. Topics in Neuroscience.

Supervised study of selected topics in Neuroscience, by individual arrangement with the instructor.

NEU X77. Undergraduate Research.

Laboratory or research in the various fields of neuroscience under the supervision of one or more faculty members.

NEU X79H. Honors Tutorial Course.

Original laboratory research project under the direction of a faculty mentor leading to a thesis or research presentation.

NEU X79N. Neuroscience and Computer Science Capstone.

Investigate questions at the intersection of neuroscience and computer science through collaborative projects. Develop computational tools and methods to study the brain and behavior. Explore how ideas from neuroscience and computer science can inform each other.

Graduate Courses

NEU X80C. Computational Neuroscience.

Introduction to computational neuroscience. Examines neural network and learning theory, coding, dynamics, memory, computation and learning in recurrent and feed forward neural circuits.

NEU X80E. Vision Systems.

Introduction to the anatomy, physiology, and psychophysics of human vision from an information-processing and computational perspective.

NEU X80M. Dual MD/PhD Program with UT Medical Branch.

Preclinical medical study at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston.

NEU X81G. Grant Writing in the Behavioral and Biological Sciences.

Introduction to grant writing in the behavioral and biological sciences and development of grant writing skills. Subjects include: finding grant opportunities, planning proposal activities, successful grant writing strategies, and how to talk to grant program officers. Write grant proposals (e.g., proposals to federal agencies such as NSF or NIH) and revise proposals based on peer and instructor feedback. Explore how grant proposals are reviewed by participating in a mock review session.

NEU X81N. Basic Processes of Nerve Cells.

Degeneration and regeneration in nervous systems following traumatic injury; invertebrate versus vertebrate, peripheral nervous system versus central nervous system, axonal versus cell body, role of glia versus neurons.

NEU X81V. Mechanisms of Vision.

Physiology of the eye, the retina, and the visual pathways. Prospects for nutritional prevention of blinding eye diseases. Functional and ecological adaptations of primate and nonprimate vision.

NEU X82E. Epigenetics.

Study of how epigenetic modifications are covalent modifications of DNA or histones that cause changes in gene expression and how epigenetic modifications appear to be a method through which nurture or the environment can influence nature. Emphasis on how experience or environmental factors epigenetically modify health or behavior of animals.

NEU X82T. Principles of Neuroscience I.

Examines the core material on essential topics in molecular and cellular neuroscience, together with review and discussion of important early studies and contemporary literature.

NEU X82V. Neural and Computational Basis of Vision.

Introduction to the physiology, psychophysics and computational aspects of the visual system. Review linear systems analysis, information theory, Bayesian statistical decision theory, and other relevant mathematical areas.

NEU X83C. Functional Neuroanatomy.

An examination of the anatomy of the brain and spinal cord, emphasizing connections and functions of neural systems.

NEU X83D. Neuropharmacology.

An advanced survey of neurotransmitters and systems in the brain. Emphasis is on pharmacological analysis at the molecular level to determine mechanisms of action of drugs that act on the brain.

NEU X83E. Neuropharmacology II.

Explore neuropharmacological concepts related to brain development, organization and anatomy; neuroendocrinology, neuroimmunology and neuroinflammation; gut-brain axis; neurobiology of addiction; and others.

NEU X83M. Data Analysis and Statistics for the Neurosciences.

Statistical applications relevant to areas of research in neuroscience.

NEU X83T. Principles of Neuroscience II.

Examines the core material on essential subjects in systems and behavioral neuroscience, together with review and discussion of important early studies and contemporary literature.

NEU X84C. Bootstrap Statistics.

An introduction to modern methods of statistical analysis based on numerical computer simulation. Covers a range of common data analysis situations drawn mainly from the fields of neuroscience and experimental psychology. Techniques include point estimation, two-group and multiple group experiments, regression and curve fitting, and Bayesian analysis.

NEU X84M. Advanced Statistics: Inferential.

Covers t-test, chi-square, analysis of variance, and nonparametric tests.

NEU X85D. Responsible Conduct of Science.

Ethical considerations in the conduct of science, including issues of animal welfare, data analysis, fraud, publications, misconduct, intellectual property, grants, peer review, and mentor responsibility.

NEU X85L. Topics in Neuroscience.

NEU X85L.12. Quantifying Brain Structure.

Concepts and hands-on applications for quantifying aspects of brain and cellular structure, with a focus on stereological approaches.

NEU X85L.13. Neurobiology of Disease.

Examines the neurobiological basis of disorders of the brain, with a focus on mental illness. Emphasis on the neural circuitries and neurochemical events that underlie specific mental processes and behaviors.

NEU X85L.3. Addiction Biology.

Current research in addiction biology. Students present individual research papers and reports.

NEU X85L.5. Behavioral Neuroendocrinology.

Current research in neuroendocrinology, including action of neuroendocrine systems on behavior, assays of substances in the blood to identify gene products, and examination of stress from neuroendocrine, behavioral, health, and immunity perspectives.

NEU X85L.6. Foundations of Human Neuroimaging.

A survey of the foundations for neuroimaging research with a focus on cognitive neuroscience. Describes the physical methods of image acquisition and physiological mechanisms used for functional imaging. Emphasis on magnetic resonance methods for structural and functional imaging. Surveys other imaging modalities, including positron emission tomography (PET), optical, and EEG/MEG electrical source localization.

NEU X85L.7. Topics in Vision and Hearing.

Current research in human vision and hearing.

NEU X85L.8. Ion Channels and Neuronal Signaling.

Molecular properties of ion channels and the mechanisms of electrical signaling in neurons and other excitable cells.

NEU X85L.9. Synaptic Physiology and Plasticity in the Central Nervous System.

Detailed background in the physiology and plasticity of synaptic transmission in the mammalian central nervous system.

NEU X85P. Programming and Data Analysis for Modern Neuroscience.

Explore the basics of programming, statistics, and machine learning, and apply these techniques to the analysis of data from neuroscience experiments.

NEU X86D. Multivariate Pattern Analysis.

Explores cutting-edge techniques for finding meaningful patterns in large, noisy brain data sets, and how to use these techniques to address a variety of questions in cognitive neuroscience.

NEU X86T. Modeling and Theory in Neuroscience.

NEU X87S. Analytical Skepticism.

Examine basic principles that allow accurate interpretation and depiction of scientific data, with an emphasis on notions of behavioral economics, probability and statistics, and experimental design.

NEU X88M. Fundamentals of Fluorescence Microscopy.

Explores optics, image formation, functioning of epifluorescent and confocal microscopes, detector technology (cameras and photomultiplier tubes), immunofluorescence techniques, image analyses, and image presentation for publication. Study of the technology and science behind widely-used high-end microscope systems.

NEU X88V. Career Development for Neuroscientists.

Explore a range of careers in neuroscience and career development. Discuss professional development and careers with scientists from industry, academia, and government agencies.

NEU X90. Research.

NEU X91. Graduate Seminar in Neuroscience.

Presentations and discussions of research topics in neuroscience.

NEU X91N. Learning and Memory.

Presentation of contemporary approaches to the study of conditioning and learning at the behavioral level. Focuses on empirical data and theoretical analysis of acquisition and performance in Pavlovian and instrumental conditioning. Includes discussion of habituation, sensitization, stimulus control, and other paradigms for studying cognitive processes in nonverbal organisms.

NEU X94I. Neuroinflammation in Health and Pathology.

Assess cutting-edge pre-clinical and clinical neuroimmune research, and interact with professors from across campus in special seminars.

NEU X94N. Neural Networks.

Biological information processing; architectures and algorithms for supervised learning, self-organization, reinforcement learning, and neuro-evolution; theoretical analysis; hardware implementations and simulators; applications in engineering, artificial intelligence, and cognitive science.

NEU X94P. Topics in Neuroscience: Seminar.

NEU X94P.1. Current Topics in Behavioral Neuroscience.

Brain-behavior relationships, particularly recent research in behavioral neuroscience, including the anatomical and neurochemical mechanisms of behavioral events, and behavioral influences on the brain.

NEU X94P.10. Statistical Methods in Computational Neuroscience.

Introduction to statistical and computational methods for understanding information processing in the nervous system, with emphasis on neural coding and statistical modeling of neural responses.

NEU X94P.11. Integrative Omics in the Evolution of Development and Behavior.

Discuss the conceptual foundations and historical roots of research programs in evo-devo and evolutionary neuroscience including recent discoveries and limitations in these fields. Explore how -omics approaches and comparative methods enable novel insights into the diversification, convergence, and constraint of complex traits.

NEU X94P.3. Neurobiology of Learning and Memory.

Neuroanatomical systems that are functionally related to basic forms of learning and memory in mammals.

NEU X94P.4. Advanced Topics in Neuroanatomy.

Neuroanatomical systems and function across species. Basic forms of neuroanatomy in mammals.

NEU X94P.7. Analysis of Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Data.

Functional magnetic resonance imaging experimental design and analysis.

NEU X94P.8. Topics in Systems Neuroscience.

Focuses on one or two topics and examines them in depth through group discussions of key scientific manuscripts. Discusses both classical studies and contemporary research.

NEU X94P.9. Perception and Action.

Current topics in visually guided behavior, including eye movements, attention, and motor control, from behavioral, computational, and neurophysiological approaches.

NEU X96D. Clinical Psychopharmacology.

Recent findings concerning the mechanisms of action and the behavioral effects of psychoactive drugs, particularly those used in psychiatry.