Connectionists: New MSc in Cognitive and Computational Neuroscience

[Kevin gurney]

We are pleased to announce a new MSc:

     Cognitive and Computational Neuroscience

This MSc is associated with the Centre for Signal Processing in
Neuroimaging and Systems Neuroscience (SPiNSN) based in the Department of
Psychology at the University of Sheffield, UK.

The course is full time for one year, and is due to start in September 2007.

What is Cognitive and Computational Neuroscience?

Cognitive and computational neuroscience provide the foundation for
understanding the relationship between brain function and the cognitive,
perceptual and motor mechanisms which underpin behaviour.  Specifically,
computational neuroscience utilises neuroscientific data to construct
rigorous computational models of brain function, whereas cognitive
neuroscience relates cognitive and behavioural function to its 
underlying neural substrate.  Together, these new and interdependent 
disciplines provide the foundation for meeting one of the key scientific 
'Grand Challenges' of the twenty-first century: elucidating the 
relationship between brain and behaviour.

Cognitive and Computational Neuroscience at Sheffield

The Department of Psychology at Sheffield University has a strong track
record in both computational neuroscience and cognitive neuroscience.
Recently, this strength has been consolidated by the creation of the 
Centre for Signal Processing in Neuroimaging and Systems Neuroscience. 
Areas of special interest include: the neurobiology and cognitive 
neuroscience of action selection; oculomotor control and the cerebellum; 
memory and learning; the neural basis of addiction; sensory control of 
dopamine; the rat somatosensory pathway; automatic and controlled 
processing. Investigative techniques include, anatomical tracing, 
multi-electrode electrophysiology, optical imaging, behavioural 
observation, computational modelling at several levels of description 
(from the biophysics of neural membranes to neural populations) and 
robotics.  This diverse range of research interests and techniques 
ensures a rich and vibrant research environment for students studying on 
the course.

Who Should Apply?

The basic requirement is a degree or equivalent qualification, normally 
at the level of an upper second class honours award. We encourage
applications from students with a background in either life sciences or
mathematical/physical sciences. If your existing training is in the life
sciences then you will be able to take advantage of specially designed
mathematics and programming classes as well as instruction in the 
relevant applied mathematics integrated into specific modules. If you 
have a qualification in mathematics, engineering, or the physical 
sciences then you will benefit from the introductory course in 
neuroscience that ensures all students have the same foundation in this 
area.

For more details see:
http://www.shef.ac.uk/psychology/prospectivepg/ccn_masters.html which
includes application procedures, and sample course material.




-- 
Professor Kevin Gurney
Adaptive Behaviour Research Group
Department of Psychology, University of Sheffield, S10 2TP, UK
http://www.shef.ac.uk/~abrg/
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