Advanced Graduate Training Program in Theoretical Neuroscience

We are requesting the continuation of a training program in theoretical, statistical and experimental neuroscience to support 4 third- and fourth-year predoctoral trainees, each for 2 years. Our goal is to train students who combine exceptional skills in mathematics, statistics, modeling, and computation with a deep understanding of neurobiology. The complexity of neural systems and of the data that we can now obtain demands researchers with these skills if we are to realize the neuroscience community's goals of achieving a mechanistic understanding of nervous system function and making significant progress in the treatment of neural disorders and mental illness. Training involves the Center for Theoretical Neuroscience and the Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute at Columbia University, supported by 9 theory faculty, 22 experimental faculty (one of whom, Rudy Behnia, is a new Co-Director of the training program), and 4 affiliated theory faculty. Collectively, our mentors represent 9 different departments: Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Biological Sciences, Biomedical Engineering, Neuroscience, Physiology and Cellular Biophysics, Psychiatry, Psychology, and Statistics at Columbia and Neuroscience and Behavior at Barnard. Most trainees will be members of the Columbia graduate program in Neurobiology and Behavior, with a smaller number drawn from other graduate programs. The goal of this training program is twofold: 1) To train theoreticians who combine outstanding skills in statistical analysis and model-building with a deep understanding and sense of biological neuroscience; and 2) To train experimentalists who are skilled at applying theoretical, statistical and computational methods in their research. This will be accomplished through a dual mentorship program with extensive collaborations between outstanding experimental laboratories and the Columbia Center for Theoretical Neuroscience. Students will be immersed in both the Theory Center and the laboratory of their experimental co-mentor. The opportunity to be involved in the operations of an outstanding laboratory and in the activities and intellectual atmosphere of a world-class theory center provides an exceptional training experience. A set of training grant specific programs will assure that students are exposed to advanced approaches to experimental design, a variety of statistical methodologies, sophisticated quantitative tools and principles of scientific rigor, while being coached in professional skills and provided with career guidance.