Core Classes

NBB 201 - "Foundations of Behavior" (same as ANT 200)
NBB 301 - "Introduction to Neurobiology" (same as BIOL 360)
NBB 302 - "Behavioral Neuroscience" (same as PSYC 353)
NBB 401SWR - "Topics in Neuro and Behavior"

NBB 201 - "Foundations of Behavior" (same as ANT 200)
Spring

Content: This course presents an introduction to evolutionary processes and biological bases of behavior. Lectures and readings will be organized around a developmental and life history perspective and will emphasize the importance of context in biological mechanisms and the interaction of social life, behavior, and cognition. Examples drawn especially from humans and nonhuman primates will be used to place human behavior in the context of other species and to illustrate the dual inheritance of biology and culture in our species. Topics covered will include: evolutionary mechanisms, adaptation, phylogenetic constraints, neural and neuroendocrine mechanisms of behavior, life history theory, developmental programs, principles of allometry, sexual selection and alternative reproductive strategies, social bonds and socialization, and the cognitive bases of social interaction in humans and non-humans.

Texts: TBA.

Particulars: Grade will be based on two hourly exams and a final.

Prerequisites: Biology 141

NBB 301 - "Introduction to Neurobiology" (same as BIOL 360)
Spring & Fall

Content: The first part of this course will focus on the electrophysiological properties of neurons, a crucial first step for understanding brain function. We will discuss the generation and propagation of action potentials, neurotransmitter release, and how ion channels and receptors determine the membrane potential and ultimately whether or not the action potential is passed to the next neuron. Also, we will examine the pasticity of this system and how the synapse is changed by learning. The second part of this course will expand upon these neuronal properties to investigate the processing of somatosensory and motor information.

Texts: TBA

Particulars: Exams: Three 1-1/2 hour in-class exams and a comprehensive final. There will also be a required review session for one hour each week.

Prerequisites: Completion of Chemistry 141 and 142 and Biology 141 and 142 is required; completion or concurrent enrollment in Intro Physics is strongly recommended.

NBB 302 - "Behavioral Neuroscience" (same as PSYC 353)
Spring

Content: The goal of this course is to present an integrated coverage of work at the intersection of animal behavior, evolution, and cellular/systems neuroscience. The course surveys the major areas of behavioral neuroscience.

Prerequisite: NBB 301/Biology 360; or completion of Biology 444 or Psychology 320

NBB 401SWR - "Topics in Neuro and Behavior"
Fall

Content: A writing intensive Senior Seminar utilizing the primary literature to examine current issues, trends, and controversies in the field of Neuroscience and Behavioral Biology.

Texts: None.

Particulars: Required for all Seniors in the NBB Program.

Prerequisite: NBB 201, 301 & 302 or permission of the instructor