Computational Neuroscience
Neurons, the cells that make up our brains, are responsible for every experience, memory, and thought we ever have. This makes understanding them crucial not only for addressing philosophical questions about oneself, but also for advancing medicine by developing neuroprosthetics, and tackling neurological and psychiatric disorders. During the Computational Neuroscience course, we will explore how mathematical modelling can help us understand these fascinating cells and uncover the answers this approach provides to fundamental questions about how the brain works.
In particular, we will examine models based on different mathematical approaches. What advantages might a statistical model have compared to physics equations? And what insights can we gain when we model a neuron as nothing more than a “black box” that filters signals? (Spoiler alert: a model like this won a Nobel Prize in 1981, so we can find out quite a bit :) ) How can we even confirm whether our model is accurate and truly represents reality?
The course will focus on developing an intuitive understanding of mathematical modelling.
At the start of each session, we will go over the mathematics and physics necessary to understand the neuroscience model presented in the second half of the session. Then, we will “dissect” the given equations together, exploring their strengths, limitations, and applications in current neuroscience research. You can expect an interactive format of teaching with lectures, discussions, and practical activities designed to help you build an intuition for the topics covered.
This course is multidisciplinary, bridging biology with mathematics and physics. All necessary information will be provided during the sessions. While the lectures won’t get unnecessarily technical, do expect an intermediate level of mathematics (i.e. you will encounter some derivatives and integrals, but these will be explained at the course prior to tackling them). More important than a mastery of math and physics, is a genuine curiosity and courage to think outside of the box.

Sára Bánovská
Session D
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