Master of Research in Systems Neuroscience
Bristol has a number of fully-funded BBSRC studentships available for eligible candidates to carry out a Master of Research in Systems Neuroscience.
Why study systems neuroscience?
The nervous system is more than the sum of its parts, and ‘Systems Neuroscience’ is an integrated approach to studying the nature of nervous system function using combinations of experimental, analytical and theoretical techniques.
This course is particularly focused on techniques applicable in vivo, since direct study of the intact nervous system is essential if we are to link mechanisms to functions and diseases. Using this approach, we can bridge molecular, cellular, network and behavioural levels, building a comprehensive understanding of highly dynamic neuronal interactions that span spatial and temporal scales from micro to macro, milliseconds to hours.
This framework is particularly powerful when used to study intact brain in animal models, human volunteers or patients, especially in combination with computational techniques. For example, using Systems Neuroscience approaches in vivo has allowed Faculty on this new M.Res. programme to:
- Link the synaptic plasticity functions of a single gene in a single neuron type to the neuronal network basis of learning and memory;
- Link activity of particular neuron types to control of complex motor behaviours;
- Develop animal models of complex diseases like depression and schizophrenia;
- Study the complex interactions between stress and circadian rhythms;
- Understand the network basis of abnormal brain activity in neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s Disease.
Who is this course suitable for?
This MRes degree course targets high-quality graduates with a range of neuroscience, biological, computational or related backgrounds.
How will the course be carried out?
The focus of this M.Res. will constitute a nine month research project using in vivo techniques introduced earlier in the course and based in one of Bristol’s many state-of-the-art neuroscience labs. Successful candidates will therefore gain considerable laboratory experience and be uniquely qualified to continue independent academic or industrial research at a Ph.D. level.
Taught components from Bristol’s internationally recognized neuroscientists will cover fundamental concepts in neuroscience and computational neuroscience, theoretical and statistical aspects of research design and data analysis, the principles, ethics and regulations regarding the use of animal models in biomedical research, in vivo experimentation in small rodents and emerging fields of research in systems neuroscience.
Collaborators from the pharmaceutical industry will also contribute to the course, linking preclinical research to the drug-discovery process.
What do I need to do to apply?
For further details and to find out about the application procedure see admissions information and the online postgraduate prospectus.