neu410 - Auditory Neuroscience

+ Neurosci. knowlg. Expt. methods Independent research Scient. literature + Social skills
+ Interdiscipl. knowlg. Maths/Stats/Progr. Data present./disc. + Scientific English + Ethics
Introduction to independent, experimental research in auditory sensory physiology. May serve as preparation for a Master thesis.

Upon successful completion of this course, students
• have profound knowledge on auditory sensory processing, including cochlear transduction mechanisms, central auditory processing and auditory psychophysics
• have basic knowledge of the large range of techniques used in auditory research
• are able to read and critically report to others on an original research paper in auditory neuroscience
• have in-depth knowledge on a specific research question in auditory neuroscience
• are able to discuss current hypotheses and controversies regarding their research question
• are able to perform experiments addressing their research topic and can describe the principles and the pros and cons of the experimental technique used
• are able to critically evaluate and discuss experimental results

One week introductory block course "Fundamentals of Auditory Physiology", comprised of a lecture series and matching seminar that emphasizes discussion.
Topics:
Hair cells: structure, transduction mechanism, receptor potential, synaptic transmission
Basilar papilla / cochlea: structure, micromechanics, amplification; otoacoustic emissions
Auditory nerve: phase locking, rate coding. Excitation patterns
Ascending auditory pathways: wiring, principles of excitation/inhibition, examples of cellular/molecular specialisations
Sound localisation in birds and mammals
Central auditory processing: imaging techniques, auditory streams, cortex, primates
Relation between psychophysics and neurophysiology

The introductory course is followed by 6 weeks of small-group laboratory-based projects, participating in the supervisor's ongoing research. This includes experimental work, data analysis, literature study, participation in the group seminar and in a poster presentation of concurrent Research Modules.
There are three options for the lab projects:
Option 1: Cochlea and auditory brainstem (Köppl)
Option 2: Auditory cortex (Hildebrandt)
Option 3: Central auditory mechanisms (Klump)

About 20 selected original papers (selection varies)
Pickles JO (2012) An Introduction to the Physiology of Hearing. Brill. / Original papers and reviews.

Introductory block course will be held in the first week of winter term, lab component is flexible and subject to individual arrangement. Participation in a joint poster presentation of concurrent research modules is required to pass the module.

within 2 months after completion of experimental work

Internship report