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The following list of approved neuroscience-oriented elective courses is valid for the 2009-10 academic year. Physiology concentration MS students are welcome to enroll in these courses as well.

Please note that some courses may be offered alternating years. Neuroscience Institute courses (NUIN) may be offered on the Chicago campus. A free shuttle runs between the Evanston and Chicago campuses.

NUIN-455 Instrumentation for Neuroscience
This is a practical course in electronics and mechanical instrumentation ranging from Ohm's law, power supplies, and fasteners, to machining, microprocessors, and computers. We will cover the basics of instrumentation theory, design, construction, use, repair, and safety. We will emphasize basic machine shop practices and basic to intermediate level applications of active electronics devices (integrated circuits or ICs). No prior knowledge is required.

NUIN-462 Cortical Circuit Organization

This course is designed for advanced neuroscience students to learn about cortical and subcortical circuits at the synaptic, cellular, and network levels. The course will focus on the structure and function of neocortical circuits, emphasizing sensorimotor systems in rodents but including circuits in a variety of sensory and motor areas, subcortical pathways representing major cortical inputs (e.g. corticocortical, thalamocortical) and outputs (e.g. corticospinal, corticostriatal). Students will give presentations focusing on specific circuits. The course will be based on primary articles and reviews, and a mix of lectures and student-led presentations.

BIOL SCI-303 Molecular Neurobiology

Our brains contain a quadrillion synapses, remarkable molecular machines that mediate the cell signaling from which thought and behavior ultimately emerge. This advanced course focuses on the physiological mechanisms of synaptic signal transduction and the pathologies that give rise to neurological disease.

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