Course

Neuroscience Lab

University of California, Los Angeles

Psychology 116: Neuroscience Lab provides an immersive laboratory experience focusing on various aspects of behavioral neuroscience. The course is coordinated by Dr. William Grisham from UCLA's Department of Physiological Science, who brings extensive experience since 1996.

Key components of the course include:

  • Upper division laboratory exercises in neuroscience.
  • Development of laboratory exercises and computer-assisted learning.
  • Administration of laboratory examinations.
  • Training and supervision of graduate teaching assistants.

Note: Due to copyright considerations, some audio clips and images may be blurred or removed.

Course Lectures
  • Behavioral Neuroscience I
    William Grisham

    This module introduces the foundational concepts of behavioral neuroscience. Students will explore the relationship between neural processes and behavior, focusing on:

    • Neuroanatomy and its relevance to behavior.
    • Neurotransmitter systems and their effects.
    • Methodologies used in behavioral neuroscience research.

    Hands-on laboratory activities will allow students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.

  • Behavioral Neuroscience II
    William Grisham

    In this module, students will delve deeper into the behavioral aspects of neuroscience. The focus will be on:

    • How brain structures influence behavior.
    • The impact of genetics on psychological traits.
    • Case studies illustrating brain-behavior relationships.

    Students will engage in experiments that illustrate these concepts, enhancing their understanding through practical application.

  • Behavioral Neuroscience III
    William Grisham

    This module focuses on the neurobiological underpinnings of learning and memory. Key topics include:

    • Mechanisms of learning and memory formation.
    • The role of synaptic plasticity.
    • Neuroanatomical substrates involved in memory.

    Students will conduct experiments to observe these processes in action, solidifying their grasp of theoretical concepts.

  • Behavioral Neuroscience IV
    Franklin Krasne

    This module examines emotional processes and their neural correlates. Students will investigate:

    • The brain's role in emotion regulation.
    • Neurotransmitters associated with emotional responses.
    • The impact of stress on brain function.

    Experiments will provide insights into emotional behavior and its biological basis.

  • Behavioral Neuroscience V
    Franklin Krasne

    This module explores the effects of drugs on behavior and brain function. Key topics include:

    • Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics.
    • The impact of various substances on the nervous system.
    • Behavioral changes associated with drug use.

    Students will analyze case studies and conduct experiments to understand these effects more thoroughly.

  • Behavioral Neuroscience VI
    Franklin Krasne

    This module emphasizes the integration of sensory systems and their influence on behavior. Students will explore:

    • How sensory information is processed by the brain.
    • The relationship between perception and action.
    • Lab exercises that demonstrate sensory integration.

    Practical activities will enhance understanding of sensory processing in real-world contexts.

  • Behavioral Neuroscience VII
    Barbara Knowlton

    This module offers a comprehensive overview of the ethical considerations in neuroscience research. Topics covered include:

    • Ethical treatment of research subjects.
    • Regulatory standards in neuroscience.
    • Case studies on ethical dilemmas.

    Students will engage in discussions and analyses to better understand the importance of ethics in research.