This course will examine the organization of neural systems underlying behavior in humans and animals. We will cover the anatomical, physiological and cellular organization of major brain systems involved in selected behaviors such as motor learning, sensory discrimination, social interactions, language, attention and states of consciousness. Emphasis will be on the synaptic and neurochemical organization of the major brain regions involved in production of these behaviors including the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, cerebellum, basal ganglia and thalamus. For each behavior, we will define the anatomical circuits and neurotransmitters involved and examine models that have been constructed to investigate how activity in these circuits may function to produce a given behavior. Lectures will be supplemented with laboratory work demonstrating techniques of investigating the synaptic organization and neurochemical anatomy of the mammalian brain. Requirements: two hour exams, and a written and oral presentation of research project. Prerequisites: Psychology 212 (Neuroscience 201) or permission of the instructor. Enrollment limited to 16. Satisfies one semester of the Division III requirement. Empirical Project

Hour: MARTONE