MSc in Cognitive and Computational Neuroscience

This MSc is associated with the Centre for Signal Processing in
Neuroimaging and Systems Neuroscience (SPiNSN) based in the Department of Psychology at the University of Sheffield, UK.
The course is full time for one year, and is due to start in September 2007.

What is Cognitive and Computational Neuroscience?
Cognitive and computational neuroscience provide the foundation for
understanding the relationship between brain function and the cognitive, perceptual and motor mechanisms which underpin behaviour. Specifically, computational neuroscience utilises neuroscientific data to construct rigorous computational models of brain function, whereas cognitive neuroscience relates cognitive and behavioural function to its underlying neural substrate. Together, these new and interdependent disciplines provide the foundation for meeting one of the key scientific ‘Grand Challenges’ of the twenty-first century: elucidating the relationship between brain and behaviour.
Cognitive and Computational Neuroscience at Sheffield
The Department of Psychology at Sheffield University has a strong track record in both computational neuroscience and cognitive neuroscience. Recently, this strength has been consolidated by the creation of the Centre for Signal Processing in Neuroimaging and Systems Neuroscience. Areas of special interest include: the neurobiology and cognitive neuroscience of action selection; oculomotor control and the cerebellum; memory and learning; the neural basis of addiction; sensory control of dopamine; the rat somatosensory pathway; automatic and controlled processing.
Investigative techniques include, anatomical tracing, multi-electrode
electrophysiology, optical imaging, behavioural observation, computational modelling at several levels of description (from the biophysics of neural membranes to neural populations) and robotics. This diverse range of research interests and techniques ensures a rich and vibrant research environment for students studying on the course.
Who Should Apply?
The basic requirement is a degree or equivalent qualification, normally at the level of an upper second class honours award. We encourage applications from students with a background in either life sciences or mathematical/physical sciences. If your existing training is in the life sciences then you will be able to take advantage of specially designed mathematics and programming classes as well as instruction in the relevant applied mathematics integrated into specific modules. If you have a qualification in mathematics, engineering, or the physical sciences then you will benefit from the introductory course in neuroscience that ensures all students have the same foundation in this area.
For more details see:
http://www.shef.ac.uk/psychology/prospectivepg/ccn_masters.html which
includes application procedures, and sample course material.