Introduction to neuroscience

How do we investigate the brain? From fMRI and EEG to post-mortem studies and electrical stimulation, explore the key techniques neuroscientists use to understand cognition and behaviour

The nervous system is divided into the central and peripheral systems, with the peripheral system further split into the somatic and autonomic branches. Discover how these divisions control everything from voluntary movements to automatic bodily functions

THE FIGHT OR FLIGHT RESPONSE, INCLUDING THE ROLE OF ADRENALINE: Explore how the nervous system responds to stress through the fight or flight mechanism. Understand the role of the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS), including sympathetic arousal and the release of adrenaline to prepare the body for action.

Discover the function of the endocrine system, exploring how glands release hormones to regulate essential processes like stress, metabolism, and growth

Learn about biological rhythms, including circadian, infradian, and ultradian cycles. Explore the role of endogenous pacemakers and exogenous zeitgebers in regulating the sleep/wake cycle and other vital processes.

Dive into brain anatomy and function, exploring the cortices, lobes, hindbrain, midbrain, forebrain, and the limbic system. Learn how these structures work together to control behaviour, emotions, and essential bodily functions.

Explore localisation of function in the brain, including the motor, somatosensory, visual, auditory, and language centres. Learn about Broca’s and Wernicke’s areas and their roles in speech and comprehension

Discover hemispheric lateralisation and how the brain’s hemispheres specialise in visual, auditory, and language processing. Understand how each hemisphere contributes uniquely to communication and perception

SPERRY AND SPLIT BRAIN RESEARCH

Neuroplasticity allows the brain to adapt and reorganise in response to experience, learning, and injury. Experience-expectant plasticity occurs during early development when the brain forms neural connections in response to environmental stimuli. Experience-dependent plasticity continues throughout life, allowing adaptation based on unique experiences. Functional recovery after trauma demonstrates the brain’s ability to compensate for damage, often through neural reorganisation and recruitment of undamaged areas. Explore the fascinating ways in which the brain adapts and recovers from injury

Learn about the structure and function of sensory, relay, and motor neurons and how they transmit signals across the nervous system. Explore the process of synaptic transmission, including the role of neurotransmitters, excitation, and inhibition.

Discover the fascinating world of genetics and its role in shaping behaviour and biological processes. Learn about genes, inheritance, and how genetic factors interact with the environment to influence development and health.

Explore genetic research methods, including twin, adoption, and genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Learn how these approaches uncover the influence of genetics on behaviour and health.

Explore a detailed glossary of the brain, including the lobes, cortices, limbic system, and brainstem. Perfect for understanding brain anatomy and its complex functions.