Seminars & Events
Monday, February 11, 2013: Dr. Daphne Soares (University of Maryland College Park) will speak on "The Sensory World of Cavefishes" at 4:45 pm in Goodpaster Hall 195.
Monday, March 4, 2013: Dr. Joe Cheer (University of Maryland Baltimore) will speak on "Endogenous Cannabinoids and the Pursuit of Reward" at 4:45 pm in Goodpaster Hall 195.
Friday, April 12, 2013: Dr. Jill McGaughy (University of New Hampshire) will speak on "The Role of Cortical Norepinephrine in the Ontogeny of Executive Function" at 3:00 pm in Schaefer Hall 106.
Alumni Highlight
Dr. Erin Johnson '02 recently received her Ph.D. in Neuroscience from the University of Rochester School of Medicine, and was inducted as an alumni member of Nu Rho Psi.
SMP Spotlight
Ron Saul, "Chronic activation of the substantia nigra nociceptin/orphanin receptor induces motor deficits similar to Parkinson's disease," 2008. Saul, the 2008 winner of the Neuroscience Award, infused a drug into the substantia nigra of rats and measured the resulting motor behaviors, mood disturbances, and cognitive abilities.
Welcome to Neuroscience
The neurosciences investigate the molecular, cellular, and genetic aspects of nervous system functioning as well as their influences on behavior. The minor in the neurosciences will allow the exploration of the brain from a biological, chemical, and psychological perspective. The understanding of the neurosciences requires knowledge about the function of neurons, the function of various brain regions, and their relation to behavior, as well as a grasp of the methodology behind neuroscientific research including development, analysis, and interpretation of experimental studies.
The goal of the neuroscience minor is to create a cross-disciplinary approach to the neurosciences with each student gaining experience and perspectives from the disciplines of biology, chemistry, and psychology. The minor places a strong emphasis on direct research experience within the neurosciences. In addition, the neuroscience minor creates an environment where faculty and students work collaboratively and discuss issues of neuroscience.
Any student with an interest in pursuing the cross-disciplinary minor in the neurosciences should consult with the minor coordinator, Dr. Anne Marie Brady (GH 137, 240-895-4258 or x4358, ambrady@smcm.edu). Students are encouraged to declare their participation in their sophomore year but no later than the end of the junior year. Students also should seek an adviser, whether formal or informal, from participating faculty.
