Are you fascinated by the workings of the human brain? Do you want to understand how neurons and networks function in health and disease? The Minor Neuroscience offers an in-depth introduction to modern neuroscience research, from fundamental brain processes to the molecular mechanisms underlying neurological and psychiatric disorders.

This minor consists of 5 complementary courses that together provide a broad yet detailed perspective on current neuroscience topics and research methods.

Cell Biology of Neuron and Glia

Explore the cellular machinery of neurons and glial cells. Topics include organelle transport, axon specification, synapse formation, protein modifications in the Golgi, secretory vesicle dynamics, protein homeostasis, and RNA biology. You’ll also study neuron-glia interactions and gain exposure to cutting-edge technologies such as CRISPR screens, live-cell imaging, and -omics approaches.

Molecular Principles of Brain Disorders

Understand the molecular underpinnings of brain diseases. This course examines the roles of genetic, environmental, epigenetic, and network-level factors in the development of neurological and psychiatric disorders..

The Adaptive Brain

Discover how the brain adapts at the molecular and cellular levels. You’ll explore neuroplasticity mechanisms and gain hands-on experience in molecular and cellular biology lab techniques.

Neuronal Networks and Behavior

Link brain circuits to behavior. Topics include sensory processing, motor control, learning and memory, cognition, and emotion. The course examines how distinct brain regions and neuronal networks contribute to these complex functions.

Computational Neuroscience

Learn how to work with complex data generated in neuroscience research. Topics include spatio-temporal gene expression analysis, multi-omics integration, single-cell transcriptomics, GWAS analysis, and computational models of synaptic transmission.

 

Admissions

The minor Neuroscience is ideal for highly motivated students interested in pursuing a career in Neuroscience. It is particularly relevant for those passionate about understanding human brain function and the biological basis of brain disorders..

• Open to third-year BSc students in the life sciences.
• Students from Biomedical Sciences or Health and Life Sciences at VU Amsterdam can register directly.
• Students from other programs or universities must submit a brief CV and academic transcript to the course coordinator before registering.

This minor is coordinated by Dr. Ruud Toonen: r.f.g.toonen@vu.nl

Link to the Minor webpage https://vu.nl/en/education/minor/neurosciences