Synaptic Communication (C1120)

15 credits, Level 6

Autumn teaching

This module explores neuronal signalling in vertebrates and invertebrates.

You’ll gain an in-depth understanding of chemical synaptic transmission. You’ll also look at the processes involved in synaptic plasticity and its role in learning, memory and the regulation of behaviours.

You’ll also explore sensory transduction and how the nervous system acquires and integrates information from the environment. There will be a particular focus on vision, hearing and pain.

Throughout the module, you’ll learn about the experimental approaches that have contributed to our understanding. You’ll also develop analytical, presentation and teamwork skills through formative group presentations of published research.

Contact hours and workload

This module is approximately 150 hours of work. This breaks down into about 22 hours of contact time and about 128 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 2023/24. 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
• Genetics BSc
• Genetics MSci
• Medical Neuroscience BSc
• Medical Neuroscience MSci
• Neuroscience BSc
• Neuroscience MSci
• Neuroscience with Psychology BSc