Associate Professor Guardiola-Diaz (Biology and Neuroscience), Director; Neuroscience Coordinating Committee: Thomas S. Johnson Distinguished Professor of Biology Blackburn (Biology), Professor Dunlap (Biology), Brownell Professor of Philosophy Lloyd (Philosophy), Professors Mace (Psychology), and Raskin∙ (Psychology and Neuroscience); Associate Professors Blaise (Engineering), Church (Chemistry and Neuroscience), and Masino (Psychology and Neuroscience); Senior Lecturer and Laboratory Coordinator Swart
Neuroscience is a broad, multidisciplinary field concerned with the nervous system, its components, and functional activities, including behavior and consciousness. How do nerve cells function and develop, and how do they communicate? How do brains work, and how have they evolved? What is the nature of consciousness, and the neural basis for behaviors and for human brain dysfunction? These are among the many questions being answered by contemporary neuroscience.
Neuroscience at Trinity involves faculty from the departments of biology, chemistry, engineering, philosophy, and psychology. The major is designed to give students a fundamental grounding in the sciences, and the flexibility to direct their studies toward biological, behavioral, and cognitive aspects of neuroscience. A major in neuroscience can lead to a career in scientific research, the health professions, education, business, law, or government. The Trinity major also prepares students for further study in graduate school and medical school. Students who are considering a major in neuroscience should consult with the neuroscience director or a member of the Neuroscience Coordinating Committee as soon as possible to ensure the selection of an appropriate sequence of courses. Neuroscience students planning to attend graduate school for an advanced degree in any of the sciences are advised to take a course in statistics or statistical methods. Those who intend to enter a health-related profession should also consult with a member of the Health Professions Advisory Committee.
The neuroscience major—The major requires 16 courses, including nine core courses and seven course credits from the list of electives. Electives must be selected from at least three different departments (biology, chemistry, engineering, neuroscience, philosophy, or psychology). No course grade of less than C- may be counted toward the major.
*HFPR 202. Health Care Research may substitute for NESC 425 provided the research is done in a neurological, neurosurgical, neuropsychiatric, or basic neuroscience laboratory setting. This substitution must be approved by the program director.
Breadth requirement—Electives must cover three departments (NESC, PSYC, BIOL, CHEM, ENGR, PHIL)
Depth option—In order to be designated as fulfilling a concentration in one area of neuroscience students who choose to do so (in addition to fulfilling the breadth requirements above) must complete four electives as listed below. This will be indicated on their transcript (e.g., Neuroscience: Cellular/Molecular Concentration).
Four electives fulfill depth in one area:
To double major in Neuroscience and another major, a maximum of three courses with a designation of 200 or above can be double-counted in both majors.
Honors in neuroscience—Honors in the major will be awarded to students who attain a B+ average in courses in the major at the 200 level and above (not including the research project), and who also demonstrate superior performance in a research project, culminating in a two-semester thesis, an oral proposal and final presentation, and a poster at the spring science symposium.
Courses at other institutions—Students who wish to earn major credit for course work at other institutions should submit to the director the name of the institution and the number, title, and catalog description of the course. This information must be submitted in writing before the work is initiated and formal permission must be granted before the courses can be credited toward the major at Trinity, following the usual procedures established by the Office of International Programs.
Study away—Neuroscience students who wish to study abroad should meet with their adviser and the program director in advance of the semester they intend to go abroad. Professor Raskin is currently the study abroad adviser for the Neuroscience Program and can advise students regarding specific study abroad options. There are many study abroad locations that allow for coursework in neuroscience as well as internship experiences. Students who wish to take a course for major credit while abroad must have this approved by the program director before going abroad.
Fall Term
101. The Brain— Recent developments in neuroscience have revolutionized our views of familiar human experiences such as locomotion, substance abuse, mental illness, sleep, and memorization. Through highly enjoyable and selected readings, presentations by visiting faculty, demonstrations and other activities, we will explore the foundations of this field as well as recent discoveries. The overall objective of this course is to provide students with a basic understanding of neuroscience, enabling them to make important decisions that may affect their lives. (Enrollment limited)-Church
301. Introduction to Neuroscience Methodology— A laboratory course that will introduce the student to current methods and techniques used in neuroscience research. The course consists of three-week rotations in the laboratories of staff members. Among the topics to be covered will be radioligand binding assays, neurochemical assays, electrophysiology, psychobiological techniques, experiments in perception, and methods in cognitive science. This course is normally taken in the junior year. (Enrollment limited)-Church, Dunlap, Masino, Swart
399. Independent Study— Submission of the special registration form, available in the Registrar’s Office, and the approval of the instructor are required for enrollment. (0.5-2 course credit) -Staff
[401. Neurochemistry]— An interdisciplinary course investigating the chemical processes involved in central nervous system functioning and communication. Emphasis will be placed on the chemical aspects of synthesis, metabolism, and release of neurotransmitters. The role of neurochemistry in behavioral and neurological disease states will be evaluated. Current research topics in this area will also be presented. Prerequisite: C- or better in Neuroscience 201, Chemistry 211, or permission of the instructor (Enrollment limited)
419. Research in Neuroscience (Library)— Students will conduct library research projects under the direction of a faculty member. Submission of the special registration form, available in the Registrar’s Office, and the approval of the instructor are required for enrollment. (0.5-1 course credit) -Staff
425. Research in Neuroscience (Laboratory)— Students will conduct original laboratory research projects under the direction of an individual faculty member. Submission of the special registration form, available in the Registrar’s Office, and the approval of the instructor are required for enrollment. (0.5-1 course credit) -Staff
466. Teaching Assistantship— Submission of the special registration form, available in the Registrar’s Office, and the approval of the instructor are required for enrollment. (0.5-1 course credit) -Staff
490. Research Assistantship— Submission of the special registration form, available in the Registrar’s Office, and the approval of the instructor are required for enrollment. (0.5-1 course credit) -Staff
498. Senior Thesis Part 1— Prerequisite: permission of the instructor. Submission of the special registration form, available in the Registrar’s Office, and the approval of the instructor are required for each semester of this yearlong thesis. (2 course credits are considered pending in the first semester; 2 course credits will be awarded for completion in the second semester) (2 course credits) -Staff
[499. Senior Thesis Part 2]— Prerequisite: permission of the instructor. Submission of the special registration form, available in the Registrar’s Office, and the approval of the instructor are required for each semester of this yearlong thesis. The research culminates in a thesis, an oral presentation, and a poster at the undergraduate Science Symposium. (2 course credits are considered pending in the first semester; 2 course credits will be awarded for completion in the second semester) (2 course credits) -Staff
Courses Originating in Other Departments
[Biology 120. Genes, Clones, and Biotechnology]— View course description in department listing on p. 289.
Biology 140. Biological Systems— View course description in department listing on p. 289. -Blackburn, Bonneau, Dunlap
Biology 140L. Biological Systems - Lab— View course description in department listing on p. 289. For this optional laboratory class the student must also enroll in the lecture section. (0.25 course credit)-Bonneau
Biology 182. Evolution of Life— View course description in department listing on p. 289. (1.25 course credits)-Blackburn, Bonneau, Fleming, Morrison, O’Donnell, Schneider, Swart
[Biology 203. Cellular Basis of Life]— View course description in department listing on p. 290. Prerequisite: A grade of C- or better in Biology 182L and Chemistry 111L or permission of the instructor. (1.25 course credits)
Biology 220. Transmission Electron Microscopy— View course description in department listing on p. 290. (0.5 course credit)-Lehman
Biology 224. Genetics— View course description in department listing on p. 290. Prerequisite: C- or better in Biology 182L, or Biology 183L or Biology 203L, or Permission of Instructor. -Fleming
Biology 224L. Genetics Laboratory— View course description in department listing on p. 290. Prerequisite: C- or betterin BIOL 224-01, or concurrent enrollment in BIOL 224-01. (0.25 course credit)-Fleming
[Biology 227. Cell Biology]— View course description in department listing on p. 291. Prerequisite: C- or better in Biology 182L, and Biology 183L or Biology 203L, or Permission of Instructor. (1.25 course credits)
Biology 317. Biochemistry— View course description in department listing on p. 291. Prerequisite: C- or better in Chemistry 212L, Biology 182L and Biology 183L or 203L. (1.25 course credits)-Guardiola-Diaz
[Biology 319. Animal Physiology]— View course description in department listing on p. 292. Prerequisite: C- or better in Biology 182L, and Biology 183L or Biology 203L, or Permission of Instructor. (1.25 course credits)
Engineering 311. Electrophysiology of the Central Nervous System— View course description in department listing on p. 396. -Blaise
[Engineering 411. Electrophysiology of the Central Nervous System]— View course description in department listing on p. 397.
[Psychology 255. Cognitive Psychology]— View course description in department listing on p. 764. Prerequisite: C- or better in Psychology 101.
[Psychology 255L. Cognitive Psychology Laboratory]— View course description in department listing on p. 764. Prerequisite: C- or better in Psychology 101. (0.25 course credit)
Psychology 261. Brain and Behavior— View course description in department listing on p. 764. Prerequisite: C- or better in Psychology 101 or Biology 140 or Biology 181 or Biology 182 or Biology 183. -Masino
Psychology 261L. Brain and Behavior Laboratory— View course description in department listing on p. 764. Prerequisite: C- or better in Psychology 261-01 or concurrent enrollment in Psychology 261-01. (0.25 course credit)-Masino
Psychology 265. Drugs and Behavior— View course description in department listing on p. 764. -Nunes
Psychology 339. Developmental Psychopathology— View course description in department listing on p. 766. Prerequisite: C- or better in Psychology 261, or Psychology 270 or Psychology 273, or Psychology 295. -Averna
Psychology 464. Neuropsychopharmacology— View course description in department listing on p. 767. Prerequisite: C- or better in Psychology 261 or Neuroscience 201. -Brunquell
Spring Term
[101. The Brain]— Recent developments in neuroscience have revolutionized our views of familiar human experiences such as locomotion, substance abuse, mental illness, sleep, and memorization. Through highly enjoyable and selected readings, presentations by visiting faculty, demonstrations and other activities, we will explore the foundations of this field as well as recent discoveries. The overall objective of this course is to provide students with a basic understanding of neuroscience, enabling them to make important decisions that may affect their lives. (Enrollment limited)
201. Principles of Neuroscience— A team-taught introductory course in neuroscience that will examine the neuron and its biological interactions in animal nervous systems. Topics will include the anatomy, development, chemistry, and physiology of nervous systems. Prerequisite: C- or better in Biology 183L or Biology 203L, or Permission of Instructor. (Enrollment limited)-Blackburn, Church, Masino, Raskin
201L. Principles of Neuroscience Laboratory— A team-taught introductory course in neuroscience that will examine the neuron and its biological interactions in animal nervous systems. Topics will include the anatomy, development, chemistry, and physiology of nervous systems. Prerequisite: C- or better in Biology 183L or Biology 203L, or Permission of Instructor. (0.25 course credit) (Enrollment limited)-Swart
262. Introduction to Animal Behavior— This course will explore the subject of animal behavior from various perspectives: evolutionary biology, psychology and neuroscience. The ultimate and proximate mechanisms that influence animal behaviors will be demonstrated by looking at vertebrate and invertebrate animals. Particular attention will be given to the behavior of humans and other primates. Topics to be covered include learning and memory, predation and foraging behavior, mating behavior and parental care, sociality, communication, and aggression. (Enrollment limited)-Swart
[362. Neuroethology]— This course will explore the control of animal behavior by the nervous system from an evolutionary perspective. Topics to be covered include motor control (orientation, navigation, pursuit and escape behavior), communication systems (mate searching, territoriality, and social interactions), resource location and ingestion, circadian and other rhythmic behaviors and learning and memory. Examples will be drawn from a wide variety of vertebrate and invertebrate animals as appropriate to the topic. For select topics special attention will be paid to experimental design and data analysis. Text readings and selected primary research articles will guide discussion of each topic. In addition to exams and quizzes, students will write several short essays and one term paper during the course of the semester. Prerequisite: C- or better in Biology 152 or Biology 153 or Biology 182 or Biology 183 or Biology 203 or Psychology 261. (Enrollment limited)
388. Current Issues in Neuroscience— This half-credit course considers current neuroscience research on topics ranging from clinical research to molecular biology. Students will attend presentations by neuroscience researchers and read and discuss pertinent research literature prior to each presentation. Some special scheduling arrangements will be necessary for activities outside of the regular class meeting time. Prerequisite: Senior Neuroscience major or Permission of Instructor. (0.5 course credit) (Enrollment limited)-Church
399. Independent Study— Submission of the special registration form, available in the Registrar’s Office, and the approval of the instructor are required for enrollment. (0.5-2 course credit) -Staff
[399. Open Semester]— (4 course credits) -Staff
402. Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology— An advanced study of individual cells and small networks of cells in the nervous system. Specific topics include the development of neurons and glia, the cellular physiology of communication in the nervous system, and characterization of molecules responsible for unique properties of neurons. These cellular and molecular processes will be examined through lectures, student-led presentations, and laboratory experiments. Prerequisite: A grade of C- or better in either Biology 153, Biology 183, or Biology 203. (Enrollment limited)-Guardiola-Diaz
419. Research in Neuroscience (Library)— Students will conduct library research projects under the direction of a faculty member. Submission of the special registration form, available in the Registrar’s Office, and the approval of the instructor are required for enrollment. (0.5-1 course credit) -Staff
425. Research in Neuroscience (Laboratory)— Students will conduct original laboratory research projects under the direction of an individual faculty member. Submission of the special registration form, available in the Registrar’s Office, and the approval of the instructor are required for enrollment. (0.5-1 course credit) -Staff
466. Teaching Assistantship— Submission of the special registration form, available in the Registrar’s Office, and the approval of the instructor are required for enrollment. (0.5-1 course credit) -Staff
490. Research Assistantship— Submission of the special registration form, available in the Registrar’s Office, and the approval of the instructor are required for enrollment. (0.5-1 course credit) -Staff
499. Senior Thesis Part 2— Prerequisite: permission of the instructor. Submission of the special registration form, available in the Registrar’s Office, and the approval of the instructor are required for each semester of this yearlong thesis. The research culminates in a thesis, an oral presentation, and a poster at the undergraduate Science Symposium. (2 course credits are considered pending in the first semester; 2 course credits will be awarded for completion in the second semester) (2 course credits) -Staff
Courses Originating in Other Departments
Biology 183. Cellular Basis of Life— View course description in department listing on p. 295. Prerequisite: C- or better in Chemistry 111 or Permission of Instructor (1.25 course credits)-Archer, Bonneau, Foster, O’Donnell
Biology 210L. Scanning Electron Microscopy— View course description in department listing on p. 295. (0.5 course credit)-Lehman
[Biology 224. Genetics]— View course description in department listing on p. 295. Prerequisite: C- or better in Biology 182L, or Biology 183L or Biology 203L, or Permission of Instructor.
[Biology 224L. Genetics Laboratory]— View course description in department listing on p. 296. Prerequisite: C- or betterin BIOL 224-01, or concurrent enrollment in BIOL 224-01. (0.25 course credit)
Biology 227. Cell Biology— View course description in department listing on p. 296. Prerequisite: C- or better in Biology 182L, or Biology 183L or Biology 203L, or Permission of Instructor. (1.25 course credits)-Foster
Biology 319. Animal Physiology— View course description in department listing on p. 297. Prerequisite: C- or better in Biology 182L, or Biology 183L or Biology 203L, or Permission of Instructor. (1.25 course credits)-Dunlap
Biology 473. Sensory Biology— View course description in department listing on p. 298. Prerequisite: C- or better in Biology 182, and Biology 183L or Biology 203L, and Biology 319L or Neuroscience 201, or permission of instructor. -Dunlap
Engineering 316. Neural Engineering— View course description in department listing on p. 400. Prerequisite: Open to all junior and senior life science and physical science majors. -Blaise
Health Fellows Program 201. Topics in Health Care— Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Health Fellows Program. -Raskin
Health Fellows Program 202. Health Care Research— Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Health Fellows Program. (2 course credits)-Raskin
Philosophy 374. Minds and Brains— View course description in department listing on p. 715. -Lloyd
Psychology 255. Cognitive Psychology— View course description in department listing on p. 769. Prerequisite: C- or better in Psychology 101. -Staff
Psychology 255L. Cognitive Psychology Laboratory— View course description in department listing on p. 769. Prerequisite: C- or better in Psychology 101. (0.25 course credit)-Staff
Psychology 261. Brain and Behavior— View course description in department listing on p. 770. Prerequisite: C- or better in Psychology 101 or Biology 140 or Biology 181 or Biology 182 or Biology 183. -Raskin
Psychology 261L. Brain and Behavior Laboratory— View course description in department listing on p. 770. Prerequisite: C- or better in Psychology 261-01 or concurrent enrollment in Psychology 261-01. (0.25 course credit)-Swart
Psychology 293. Perception— View course description in department listing on p. 770. Prerequisite: C- or better in Psychology 101. -Mace
Psychology 293L. Perception Laboratory— View course description in department listing on p. 771. Prerequisite: C- or better in Psychology 293-01 or concurrent enrollment in Psychology 293-01 (0.25 course credit)-Mace
Psychology 302. Behavioral Neuroscience— View course description in department listing on p. 771. Prerequisite: C- or better in Psychology 261 or Neuroscience 201. -Masino
[Psychology 365. Cognitive Neuroscience]— View course description in department listing on p. 771. Prerequisite: C- or better in Psychology 255 or Psychology 256 or Psychology 261 or Neuroscience 201.
[Psychology 392. Human Neuropsychology]— View course description in department listing on p. 771. Prerequisite: C- or better in Psychology 255 or Psychology 256 or Psychology 261 or Neuroscience 201.
[Psychology 454. Cognition in the Real World]— View course description in department listing on p. 773. Prerequisite: C- or better in Psychology 255, Psychology 256, or Psychology 293.