ENGINEERING TRIPOS PART IIA - 2012/2013

Module 3G3
Introduction to Neuroscience

Leader: Prof DM Wolpert (wolpert@eng.cam.ac.uk)

Timing: Lent term
Prerequisites: None
Structure: 16L

AIMS

This module aims to introduce students to how the brain processes sensory information, controls our actions, learns through experience and lays down memories. The aim is to elucidate the computational and engineering principals of brain function.

Further details and online resources

SYLLABUS

Perception and action (8L) (Prof DM Wolpert)

• Neurons and synapses
• Coding of sensory information
• Hearing
• Spinal reflexes and muscle

Learning and memory (8L) (Dr M Lengyel)

• The cellular basis of learning and memory
• Animal learning
• Memory
• Decision making

OBJECTIVES

On completion of the module students should:

• Have a basic grasp of neuroscience that can act as foundation for further study.
• Understand the basic principles of sensory processing, movement. Learning and memory and how engineering concepts can be applied to them.

COURSEWORK

Coding in visual cortex. Simulation of different types of neural coding of images. Laboratory report and/or Full Technical Report.

REFERENCES

Please see the Booklist for Part IIA Courses for references to this module.

Last updated: August 2012