Upcoming ION Seminars
The goal of research in the Sawtell laboratory is to forge detailed links between the properties of neural circuits and their functions. Our studies of weakly electric fish have shown how a specific form of synaptic plasticity operating within a well-characterized cerebellum-like circuit functions to predict and cancel out sensory inputs generated by the animal’s own behavior. Such a process could allow behaviorally relevant sensory inputs, e.g. those generated by predators or prey, to be processed more effectively. This work provides a mechanistic account of how copies of motor commands are transformed into specific predictions of sensory events as well as insights into the function of the cerebellar granular layer. A tight coordination of experimental and theoretical approaches is a key aspect of the lab’s approach. Experimental work involves intra- and extracellular recordings from identified neuron classes in awake, behaving fish. Theoretical work is performed in collaboration with Larry Abbott’s group at the Center for Theoretical Neuroscience at Columbia University.
Seminar Details
This academic year will host a series of virtual and in person seminars with live, remote access via Zoom. ION Seminars are open to the University of Oregon community and in person attendance is welcome. In person seminars will be held in Willamette 110 at 4 PM PT.
To accommodate remote speakers and time differences, some seminars may be offered at Noon PT or another agreed upon time. For students taking BI 407/507 Neuroscience Seminar please contact the course instructor to access recordings as needed.
Details for upcoming seminars will be shared here on the ION website as well as through our ION mailing lists. Links for remote access via Zoom will be available only through ION Seminar mailing list and those not on the list can request access by contacting Jenna Penny with their uoregon.edu email address.