MSc Integrative Neuroscience

Integrative neuroscience considers neural components in their functional context. All levels of analysis are of interest. How do molecular and cellular components build functioning neurons and synapses? How do brain cells work together to form operational circuits? How do circuits jointly generate behaviour and cognition? How are individual brains shaped by their interaction with other brains and with the natural environment? The integrative study of the nervous system involves newer developments such as functional brain imaging, application of molecular biology, and genetics and immunology as well as more traditional areas like neurophysiology, neuroanatomy, animal behaviour, or psychophysics. In addition, neural modelling and quantitative analyses are growing rapidly in importance. Accordingly, the programme introduces students to a wide variety of techniques from different disciplines. The MSc Integrative Neuroscience programme opens almost the entire spectrum of advanced neuroscience research to its students. This includes animal behaviour and neurophysiology; human cognition and functional brain imaging; and numerous advanced techniques such as spectroscopy, optogenetics, two-photon microscopy, molecular dynamics, and more. It also includes related fields such as medical neuroscience, neuroprosthetics, neuro-inspired engineering, and neuroeconomics. The MSc Integrative Neuroscience programme provides a broad foundation in the basic areas of neuroscience. This includes molecular and cellular neuroscience, systems and behavioural neuroscience, as well as theoretical and computational neuroscience. Students take core courses in all of these areas and choose from a range of advanced courses. They perform practical or laboratory exercises in all core areas and spend several weeks each in three research laboratories. The wide range of areas and requirements makes for an intensive and rewarding study experience. The first two semesters provide a broad foundation in molecular, cellular, systems, and theoretical neuroscience. Core lecture courses, which are obligatory for all students, help to balance out different academic backgrounds and ensure a uniform level of basic knowledge for all participants. Core lecture courses are complemented by optional tutorials.