NSCS 397 VIP-CURE in Brain Communication Networks (offered Spring 2023, Fall 2023 & Spring 2024)

Course Description: 

The Vertically Integrated Projects (VIP) Program is a transformative approach to enhancing higher education by engaging undergraduate students in long-term, large-scale, multidisciplinary research project teams that are led by faculty. Students earn academic credits, while faculty benefit from the design/discovery efforts of their teams. These classes are: (1) embedded in faculty mentor’s scholarship and exploration, (2) projects are long-term and large-scale, continuing for many years, (3) part of the curriculum and graded, (4) students earn credits toward their degree, and can take the course continuously for multiple years, (5) learning outcomes focus on development of both disciplinary and professional skills. In essence, it is a multi-year, team-based research project where you can grow in your scientific skills, knowledge, and mindset while earning credit. You may sign up for a semester and then opt in to future semesters to continue on the projects. See what we did in the first semester of the course here: https://sites.google.com/view/arizonabrainvip/

In the Brain Communication Networks VIP-CURE course (NSCS 397), students apply genetics, basic coding skills, flow cytometry, and behavioral tests to predict and then test interactions between cell types in the brain of a simple model organism, Drosophila melanogaster (fruit fly). We will focus on discovering and mapping ligand-receptor pairs in the brain that are relevant for brain function, aging, and/or disease. Each team will develop and then contribute expert advice to assemble a picture of how this inter-cellular communication in the brain occurs. We will be making new scientific discoveries that we will go on to share with the public. You can join the class with one set of skills and learn the others by interacting with other teams of students in the course. Do not be intimidated, this course is for everyone! 

Pre-requisite skills: Basic understanding of genes, cells and molecules (introductory biology or equivalent) AND/OR basic computer programming experience

Attributes for success: Work well independently and in teams, passion and dedication, creativity and curiosity, leadership skills, organization, perseverance

Credits: 3-credits. Estimated 25% didactic, 75% hands-on work (in person in the lab or using computer software platforms)

Modality: In-Person. One hour of research team meeting (Tues 9:30-10:30), 2 hours of laboratory work per week (spread across other weekday mornings, TBD). 

Open to many majors, including:

• Neuroscience and Cognitive Science (NSCS)

• Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (EEB)

• Molecular and Cellular Biology (MCB)

• Computer Science / Data Science

• iSchool

• Biochemistry

• Physiology

• Math

• Honors College

Application to enroll: https://forms.gle/qkvrutVw3wmVeQVF9 

Deadline for application to Spring 2024 course: Friday Nov 3rd, 2023

Criteria for selection are primarily about ensuring a diverse mixture of students that will bring many different perspectives and skills to the course (academic level, skill sets, URM/first-gen students, honors/non-honors). Class size is limited to 24. Selected students will be notified by November 7th and will be enrolled by the NSCS program coordinator. There will likely be a waitlist.

Instructor: Martha Bhattacharya, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Department of Neuroscience, with occasional guest lecturers