| Unit name | Computational Neuroscience |
|---|---|
| Unit code | COMSM2127 |
| Credit points | 10 |
| Level of study | M/7 |
| Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 2 (weeks 13 - 24) |
| Unit director | Dr. Bogacz |
| Open unit status | Not open |
| Pre-requisites |
None |
| Co-requisites |
None |
| School/department | Department of Computer Science |
| Faculty | Faculty of Engineering |
This unit introduces the quantitative theory and models of computations performed by the brain. The lectures will progress through different levels of abstraction: from detailed models of single neurones based on neurophysiology to high-level models of interactions between networks of neurones explaining human behaviour. The following topics are discussed: 1. Models of a single neurone: integrate and fire model based on neurophysiology. 2. Models of neural networks: models of different types of memory in hippocampus and cortex, models of feature extraction in thalamus and visual cortex, and models of cerebellar operation. 3. Models of neural systems: models of decision making, reinforcement learning and cognitive control. Furthermore, this unit will train the students in the basic use of MATLAB for data acquisition, analysis and graphing, and for computational modelling.
