Neuroethology Neuroethology lies at the intersection of evolution, behavior, and neuroscience and answers questions about the structure and function of nervous systems. This discipline seeks to understand circuitry underlying adaptive behaviors and the role of natural selection in shaping the nervous system. In this course we will embrace a molecular-to-behavior approach using model organisms. We will assess variation in behavior through video and image analyses, use histology to describe variation in circuit morphology, and employ genetic techniques to manipulate neuron function. Lectures focus on the development of scientific comprehension, writing, and communication skills; labs provide hands-on experience in neuroscience techniques and data analysis.

The Aging Nervous System Aging is common to all animals and represents the greatest risk factor for many diseases. The nervous system, with its remarkable cellular diversity and some of the longest-lived cells in the body, is of particular interest to theories and mechanisms of aging. In this course, we will use primary literature to develop an understanding of the evolution and mechanisms of aging, focusing on cellular and molecular signatures of senescence in the nervous system. We will cover variation across species and brain cell types and the functional consequences of aging. Evaluation will be based on weekly reading responses, discussion facilitation, and a final paper structured as a systematic review or meta-analysis. (NSCI juniors and seniors; BIOL 0145 AND BIOL 0140 OR NSCI 251 or by approval) 3 hrs sem.

Fundamentals of Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience Neurons are the building blocks of complex circuits that underlie perception and behavior. In this course we will examine the molecular and cellular basis of neuron structure and function. The topics include the molecular and cellular basis of action potential propagation, the molecular biology of synaptic transmission, the molecular mechanisms of synaptic plasticity, and the molecular mechanisms of sensory transduction. Laboratory exercises will train students in commonly used neurobiology techniques and engage students in novel investigations. (BIOL 0145 (Note: AP credit in biology cannot be used to satisfy this requirement) Open to neuroscience majors, non-majors and seniors by waiver).

Experimental Design and Statistical Analysis Experimental design is one of the most important parts of doing science, but it is difficult to do well. How do you randomize mice? How many replicate petri plates should be inoculated? If I am measuring temperature in a forest, where do I put the thermometer? In this course students will design experiments across the sub-areas of biology. We will run student designed experiments, and then learn ways to analyze the data, and communicate the results. Students planning to do independent research are encouraged to take this course. (BIOL 0140 or BIOL 0145).

Rebekah Keating Godfrey

Reviews and ratings for Rebekah Keating Godfrey at Middlebury College.Rebekah Keating Godfrey teaches Neuroethology, The Aging Nervous System, Cellular/MolecularNeuroscience and more.  Explore top rated instructors and find the best for you.Is Rebekah Keating Godfrey good ? Find out on MiddCourses.

Professor Keating is one of my favorite professors that I've had here. At times her lecture can be a little confusing, but she is really good at clearing things up and is always willing to help students. You can tell that she truly wants everyone to understand the content and be successful in the class. You do need to put in effort on your end. I recommend reading the chapter assigned from the textbook to help.

Overall I really enjoyed this course and gained a lot fo confidence using R and around statistics in general. Keating is newer and you could sometimes see this in terms of course organization but she was overall great and very supportive and helpful.  