Cognitive Neuroscience: Chemistry vs Physics for UC Davis Biochemistry Major

[annoyinggirl]

I attend UC Davis, which doesn't offer Neuroscience as a major. What is the next best alternative if I want to go into cognitive neuroscience? I'm currently majoring in Biochemistry. Is that the best major for Cognitive Neuroscience? If not, what is? According to wikipedia:" Due to its multidisciplinary nature, cognitive neuroscientists may have various backgrounds. Other than the associated disciplines just mentioned, cognitive neuroscientists may have backgrounds in these disciplines: neurobiology, bioengineering, psychiatry, neurology, physics, computer science, linguistics, philosophy and mathematics." I'm wondering why chemistry is not mentioned, whereas Physics is. Shouldn't biochemistry/chemistry have more to do with the brain than does physics?

 

[mazinse]

i guess the neurobio already took care of all that biochem

 

[chill_factor]

neurochemistry has to do with the chemistry of the brain. it is applied to solving neurological problems. you give someone medicine and their brain changes (say, no longer depressed). however it doesn't have much to do with studying the brain itself.

physics is used to actually study the brain itself, from MRI scans for example, and to model brain processes.

 

[atyy]

http://www.sfn.org/index.aspx?pagename=whatisneuroscience
"Cognitive neuroscientists study functions such as perception and memory in animals by using behavioral methods and other neuroscience techniques. In humans, they use non-invasive brain scans -- such as positron emission tomography and magnetic resonance imaging -- to uncover routes of neural processing that occur during language, problem solving and other tasks."

Despite the use of PET and fMRI, a recommendation of physics for this subfield probably has to do with the sorts of mathematical models employed, ie. with the sorts of mathematical familiarity would have, eg.
http://videolectures.net/icml09_niv_tnorl/
http://www.princeton.edu/~yael/Publications/Niv2009.pdf

 

[Matrix0]

I can provide some insight into the question of whether biochemistry or physics is a better major for pursuing a career in cognitive neuroscience. While both majors can provide a strong foundation for understanding the brain, they offer different perspectives and skill sets.

Biochemistry is a highly relevant major for cognitive neuroscience as it focuses on the chemical processes that occur within living organisms, including the brain. This is important because many aspects of cognitive neuroscience, such as neurotransmission and metabolism, involve biochemical processes. A background in biochemistry can provide a strong understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying brain function.

On the other hand, physics offers a different perspective on understanding the brain. Physics principles, such as electricity, magnetism, and optics, are crucial for studying the brain's electrical activity, imaging techniques, and the physical properties of neurons. Physics can also provide a strong foundation for computational neuroscience, which uses mathematical and computational tools to model brain function.

Ultimately, both biochemistry and physics can provide valuable skills and knowledge for pursuing a career in cognitive neuroscience. It may be beneficial to explore both majors and see which one aligns more with your interests and career goals. Additionally, keep in mind that cognitive neuroscience is a multidisciplinary field, and a background in any of the disciplines mentioned in the Wikipedia quote can be valuable. It is also possible to pursue a minor or take elective courses in either biochemistry or physics to supplement your major and develop a well-rounded understanding of the brain.