MSc by Research in Neuroscience - Neural Circuits

University of Leeds

This 12 month programme features no taught content, rather you will undertake a research project and write a thesis from your results. Similar to a PhD, you will have a supervisor who is based in your chosen field. MSc by Research will develop your academic and practical skills and is an excellent option should you wish to explore your area of interest further but feel that a PhD is not the right choice at this time. MSc by Research students often go on to PhD study or to work in industry.The brain is composed of an interconnected hierarchy of neural circuits, with each circuit performing discreet functions, whether it is identifying an odour or generating a pattern of movement. Understanding what computations are carried out by each neural circuit and how these are implemented by the circuit's neuronal and synaptic components is key to understanding how the brain works. Such insights are a necessary step in developing therapies to alleviate disorders of the nervous system. Neuroscientists at Leeds are actively exploring brain circuits involved in the control of movement, sensation, pain and the regulation of metabolism and autonomic function. They employ a range of cutting edge techniques to interrogate these neural circuits, including high density electrical and optical recordings, computational modelling, optogenetics and behavioural experiments.