Biological Sciences

The course Computational and Cognitive Neuroscience presents an overview of the core topics in cognitive and biological psychology. These topics include (human) perception, learning, memory, planning, problem solving, reasoning, language, speech, and action. Both the functional and neuroanatomical foundations of cognitive faculties are addressed. Several models of cognition and theories of brain function that are of relevance to knowledge engineering are outlined. Several skills trainings are given to train understanding in biological functioning of neuronal communication and functioning of neural networks and genetic algorithms.

This course examines how complex multicellular systems are constructed using both animal and plant systems in a comparative way that reveals common strategies and striking contrasts. It covers the multidisciplinary nature of approaches used, including classical embryology, biochemistry, genetics, transcriptomics, live-imaging, cell biology, physiology and computer simulation. Topics include fundamental concepts, morphogens, establishing body axes, cell polarity, differentiation and commitment, evolution in the context of development, mechanics and morphogenesis with examples from model systems, stem cells and cancer. Practical work includes experiments addressing gene expression, organ identity and homeotic conversions, and uses CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing to demonstrate approaches to the study of developmental biology. 

Lectures and seminars cover reproductive and vegetative development, genome analysis and gene regulation, light and hormone signaling, environmental stress & disease, and applied plant biotechnology. Laboratory exercises cover plant development, anatomy and mutants, transgenics and genotyping, gene cloning, DNA and protein bioinformatics and model organism genome databasing, and protein expression.

This course offers a comprehensive understanding of how pathogens emerge, evolve and spread as well as an insight into the cutting-edge tools applied in their study and measures for their control. The course moves from pathogen-related genetic factors that enable pathogens to adapt to new hosts or acquire antibiotic resistance that make them so difficult to treat, through to ecological and host factors such as intensive agriculture, and climate change that bring us in to contact with new diseases.

This course explores how literature, cinema, history, biology, anatomy, pathology, catastrophic events, and cultural diversity have been shaped and driven by teeth, the face, and the human smile. Using the "smile" and “teeth” as focal points, a host of different relations with society will be explored to create a critical understanding around ambiguous issues such as the concept of beauty, the changing nature of health, and the relationship between the “natural” and the “artificial”. Additionally, by using active learning as a vector, students broaden their perspectives and enhance their collaborative, innovative, and self-directed spirits. Thus, by examining the history and current understanding of the "smile" and "teeth", the course illuminates the relationships between science, technology, and everyday life in a cross-cultural context. How can a smile impact a society?

Nutritional Pathology and Metabolism introduces nutrition-related diseases in terms of pathophysiology and treatment, emphasizing macronutrients (carbohydrate, fat, and protein). It provides a basic understanding of the principles of the metabolic pathway in human bodies as a core pathogenesis of human diseases. Students develop a nutrition care plan as a component of health care for individuals.   

Suggested prerequisites: Human Physiology, Basic Nutrition, Nutritional Biochemistry 

This course goes beyond conventional lecture-based instruction and to the heart of the research process. Through hands-on scanning, data analysis, literature exploration, and seminar participation, students learn how MRI and fMRI are used to investigate the human brain – and apply knowledge to design, conduct, and present neuroimaging projects. The course integrates foundational concepts in neuroimaging and clinical neuroscience through hands-on, research-based learning. Through this process, students gain practical experience with MRI hardware and scanning, experimental design, basic image processing, and scientific writing and presentation.

This course discusses the historical, ecological, geographical, evolutionary, and anthropogenic context for plant biodiversity in the Mediterranean Basin. It examines the richness of plant species in the different regions and environments of the Iberian Peninsula. This course also explores plant taxa, useful tools for differentiating botanical groups, as well as preparation of flora inventories, vegetation inventories, biogeographical analyses, technical reports, etc.  

This course explores animal diversity through specialized training in the methodologies required to identify different zoological groups. Students learn how to recognize the most representative species of fauna and create fauna inventories, measure and interpret animal variability and differentiate zoological groups, as well as how to prepare research studies and fauna inventories and catalogs aimed at characterizing animal communities, biogeographical studies, strategic environmental assessments, environmental impact assessments, and the delimitation of protected areas. 

Pre-requisites: It is recommended to have taken and passed Zoology 

This course introduces the core principles of neuroscience and translation, including the core structural and functional principles of the brain. It provides a deep-dive into neurological disease from molecular, cellular, and clinical perspectives and with clinically oriented sessions offered including cadaveric anatomy, neuroimaging, and patient-facing skill building. It offers hands-on laboratory practical experience in molecular and cellular techniques, supported by focused workshops and seminars.