Teaching
We instruct/co-instruct the following courses:
1. Bioelectronics and Biosensors, Fall Semester (227-0393-10L, 6 ECTS)
Abstract: The course introduces the concepts of bioelectricity and biosensing. The sources and use of electrical fields and currents in the context of biological systems and problems are discussed. The fundamental challenges of measuring biological signals are introduced. The most important biosensing techniques and their physical concepts are introduced in a quantitative fashion.
2. Neural Systems, Spring Semester (227-0395-00L, 6 ECTS)
Abstract: This course introduces principles of information processing in neural systems. Behavioral science allows reading out the computations performed by the brain whereas neuroscience reveals how they are implemented. Based on neuroscience experiments, this course introduces engineering methods and information-science concepts for understanding animal behaviors and their underlying neural mechanisms.
3. Introduction to Neuroinformatics, Fall Semester (227-1037-00L, 6 ECTS)
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.
4. Structure, Plasticity and Repair of the Nervous System, Fall Semester (376-1305-01L, 6 ECTS)
Abstract: The course covers the structure, plasticity and regeneration of the adult nervous system (NS) with focus on: sensory systems, cognitive functions, learning and memory, molecular and cellular mechanisms, animal models, and diseases of the NS.
5. Basics of Instrumentation, Measurement, and Analysis, Fall Semester (University of Zurich) (227-1039-00L, 4 ECTS)
Abstract: Experimental data are always as good as the instrumentation and measurement, but never any better. This course provides the very basics of instrumentation relevant to neurophysiology and neuromorphic engineering, it consists of two parts: a common introductory part involving analog signals and their acquisition (Part I), and a more specialized second part (Part II).
6. Electrophysiological Recording Techniques, Fall Semester (University of Zurich, Block Course) (BIO434, 6 ECTS)
Abstract: The course provides the background knowledge and hands-on experience and training in various electrophysiological recording techniques. The scope of the course is to provide a thorough training of these techniques. Practical work and demos will cover a broad range of techniques, including intra- and extracellular recordings, patch-clamp recordings from individual neurons, electrical field potential measurements in neural tissue, and in vivo recordings in the brain. Furthermore, experiments combining electrophysiological measurements with imaging methods such as two-photon targeted patch-clamp and and two-photon calcium imaging of neuronal network activity will be topic of the course.