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Menu Cognitive and Behavioural Ecology
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Introduction
Programs leading to the M.Sc. and Ph.D are offered to students who are interested in how neural activity and organization give rise to behavior. The interests of several of the faculty are directed at understanding the relation between changes in behavior and changes in limbic system anatomy and physiology (limbic plasticity). Current faculty interests include investigation of: the neural basis of post-traumatic stress disorder using predator stress as an animal model (Adamec); modulation of brain stem startle circuitry (Evans); activity anorexia in rats (Grant & Revusky); changes in hippocampal physiology that underlie learning (Harley); how sex hormones influence brain development and behavior (Malsbury); the neural basis of spatial learning and memory (Martin & Skinner). Facilities include well-equipped laboratories in the Biotechnology/Animal Care building and the Vivarium. An extensive light microscopy facility includes an image analysis system (Imaging Research Inc). This allows for quantitative analysis of optical density and morphometric measures of neuroanatomical features identified using, for example, enzyme histochemistry or immunocytochemistry. Modern electrophysiology laboratories are also available. Neuroscientists in the medical faculty are an important resource. The Newfoundland Chapter of the Society for Neuroscience serves as a focus for promoting communication among members from the faculties of Science and Medicine. The chapter organizes a visiting speakers series: eminent neuroscientists visit our laboratories, talk to our faculty and students, and tell us about their work. Appropriate courses in the medical school may be selected as part of our program, e.g. Medicine 6196, Systems Neuroscience, and Medicine 6197, Cellular Neuroscience. Within psychology, required courses include Behavioral Neuroscience I and II (6800 and 6801). |
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Copyright © 2006. Department of Psychology, Memorial University of Newfoundland. |
