The cells of multi-cellular organisms constantly receive and respond to signals. The signals can come from the environment (light, sound, heat, touch) or from other cells. The communication between cells is crucial for survival, both for individual cells and for the organism as a whole.
Signalling involves many steps, and signals can result in a myriad of responses. However, a key feature is how many signalling systems have similar pathways and/or similar steps in different pathways. One of the key ways in which cells in animals, such as ourselves, communicate is via nervous systems. This module is aimed at students with some background in Biology, Biochemistry or Psychology, as we will explore the fundamentals of neuronal cells, the way they communicate as well as the architecture and connectivity of mammalian nervous systems.
This module will provide you with practical experience in the laboratory, interactive simulations and demonstrations; which may include using model invertebrate systems as examples, such as analysing how neurons work in cockroach legs. You will develop a deeper understanding of complex intracellular pathways, exploring how cells communicate inside the cells and together.
This module may involve engagement with guest speakers from the Sussex Neuroscience group, including from the Kemenes Lab; where much research focuses on studies involving Lymnaea stagnalis (pond snails). These are used as model organisms, due to their large neurons. This has enabled the study of the details of central pattern generators, among other things.
The School of Life Sciences’ building is named after John Maynard Smith (another Fellow of the Royal Society of London), who was influential in research collaboration between Life Sciences fields and went on to serve as the Dean of Life Sciences twice during his time at the University of Sussex.
Target group
This module is aimed at students with some background in Biology, Biochemistry or Psychology, as we will explore the fundamentals of neuronal cells, the way they communicate as well as the architecture and connectivity of mammalian nervous systems.
Course aim
- Understand the principles of signal transduction mechanisms; in particular, the concepts of response specifically signal amplitude and duration, signal integration and intracellular location.
- Describe the mechanisms by which some different receptors may be activated by their respective ligands.
- Demonstrate understanding of neuroanatomy and nervous system function on a cellular and physiological level.
- Perform analysis of data relevant to techniques in neuroscience and communicate the results in written form.
Credits info: 15 EC
Fee info
GBP 2420: The full cost of one 3-week Undergraduate Summer School session will be £2420. If you wish to study for both sessions then you can do so.
This is made up of:
Tuition fees of £1655 per session include:
- All teaching and assessment for one module of study. Where field trips or course excursions are required then the cost of this is included in the tuition fee, however travel costs may be required
- A minimum of 150 study hours, with a minimum of 40 hours class/teaching contact hours
- Modules formally approved for 15 Sussex credits, equivalent to 7.5 ECTS or 3 – 4 US credits
- A transcript of studies upon successful completion of the module (including meeting all attendance and assessment requirements).
The accommodation and campus programme fee of £765 per session include:
- Your own bedroom in on-campus East Slope student village. These are a mixture of en-suite flats and standard flats with shared facilities
- Bedding pack of duvet and duvet cover, sheet, towel, pillow and pillowcase
- Programme of free campus social events and activities throughout each session. Excursions and social programme trips will be provided on Fridays and weekends.
Scholarships
If you are applying from one of our partner institutions, you will be entitled to a reduction in tuition fees. Please contact your study abroad office or summer@sussex.ac.uk for more information.
For further information, please click the "LINK TO ORIGINAL" button below.