Principles of Neuronal Function (C1016)

15 credits, Level 5

Autumn teaching

This module provides you with detailed insight into the fundamental workings of the nervous system. You’ll focuses on the relationship between the structure and function of the cellular and sub-cellular components of neurons, and on mechanisms that underlie information signalling.

Examples of nervous system disorders illustrate the sensitivity of neurons and circuits, as well as the often-catastrophic consequences on brain function. You will learn to identify and communicate key principles that are essential to understanding neuroscience.

Topics include:

• signalling by neurons and synapses
• neurotransmission and information coding
• nervous system plasticity
• cellular and molecular basis of learning and memory
• fundamental disease mechanisms
• methodological approaches.

Contact hours and workload

This module is approximately 150 hours of work. This breaks down into about 20 hours of contact time and about 130 hours of independent study. The University may make minor variations to the contact hours for operational reasons, including timetabling requirements.

We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2024/25. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum. We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.

Courses

This module is offered on the following courses:

• Biochemistry (with an industrial placement year) BSc
• Biochemistry BSc
• Biochemistry MSci
• Biology BSc
• Biology MSci
• Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence BSc
• Genetics BSc
• Genetics MSci
• Neuroscience BSc
• Neuroscience MSci
• Neuroscience with Psychology BSc
• Psychology with Neuroscience BSc
• Zoology BSc
• Zoology MSci