Matthew Cook: Catalogue data in Autumn Semester 2023 |
Name | Dr. Matthew Cook |
Address | Institut für Neuroinformatik ETH Zürich, Y55 G 90 Winterthurerstrasse 190 8057 Zürich SWITZERLAND |
Telephone | +41 44 635 30 97 |
mc@ethz.ch | |
URL | http://www.ini.uzh.ch/~cook |
Department | Information Technology and Electrical Engineering |
Relationship | Lecturer |
Number | Title | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
227-1037-00L | Introduction to Neuroinformatics | 6 credits | 2V + 1U + 1A | V. Mante, M. Cook, B. Grewe, G. Indiveri, D. Kiper, W. von der Behrens | |
Abstract | The course provides an introduction to the functional properties of neurons. Particularly the description of membrane electrical properties (action potentials, channels), neuronal anatomy, synaptic structures, and neuronal networks. Simple models of computation, learning, and behavior will be explained. Some artificial systems (robot, chip) are presented. | ||||
Learning objective | Understanding computation by neurons and neuronal circuits is one of the great challenges of science. Many different disciplines can contribute their tools and concepts to solving mysteries of neural computation. The goal of this introductory course is to introduce the monocultures of physics, maths, computer science, engineering, biology, psychology, and even philosophy and history, to discover the enchantments and challenges that we all face in taking on this major 21st century problem and how each discipline can contribute to discovering solutions. | ||||
Content | This course considers the structure and function of biological neural networks at different levels. The function of neural networks lies fundamentally in their wiring and in the electro-chemical properties of nerve cell membranes. Thus, the biological structure of the nerve cell needs to be understood if biologically-realistic models are to be constructed. These simpler models are used to estimate the electrical current flow through dendritic cables and explore how a more complex geometry of neurons influences this current flow. The active properties of nerves are studied to understand both sensory transduction and the generation and transmission of nerve impulses along axons. The concept of local neuronal circuits arises in the context of the rules governing the formation of nerve connections and topographic projections within the nervous system. Communication between neurons in the network can be thought of as information flow across synapses, which can be modified by experience. We need an understanding of the action of inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmitters and neuromodulators, so that the dynamics and logic of synapses can be interpreted. Finally, simple neural architectures of feedforward and recurrent networks are discussed in the context of co-ordination, control, and integration of sensory and motor information. Connections to computer science and artificial intelligence are discussed, but the main focus of the course is on establishing the biological basis of computations in neurons. |