PhD in Computational/Theoretical Neuroscience

[bhachen]

Hi,

I am currently a 2nd year grad student at Johns Hopkins majoring in Biomedical Engineering. I am working in the field of neuroengineering for my masters thesis. I plan to apply for a PhD in theoretical/computational neuroscience for the Fall of 2014.

My academic background consists of bioengineering major and chemical engineering minor in undergrad and biomedical engineering major in masters.

During my undergrad I have developed interests in membrane biophysics and started looking at the ion channels and their properties in neurons. I interned in research labs to gain some experience in the aspects of integrate and fire models of neurons using NEURON simulation environment. And for my bachelors thesis I worked on potential fluorescent dyes for biomembranes. I have good programming skills and quantitative skills.

Pursuing my interests in neuroscience, I am working on developing MEMS platforms to study axonal injuries in trauma in CNS. While taking courses to supplement my thesis, I took a course of Modeling in neurons and was propelled towards a PhD in the field of biophysical neuronal modeling.

I have gone through couple of posts in different threads mentioning about math, I have taken multivariable calculus, ODEs, PDEs, basic linear algebra in my freshmen and sophomore year. Though I need to brush them, I am inclined to do math. Also I have worked with non linear dynamical systems in modeling the biophysical neuron models.

I am aware of the fact the biophysical modeling of neurons falls under one of the branches of computational/theoretical neuroscience. But the thing I am not clear about is the background needed for applying in this particular field. If you could suggest me some good research groups and schools that work in this field of my interest that would be great.

 

[Aero51]

Look up Andrey Kuznetzov and email him

 

[bhachen]

Look up Andrey Kuznetzov and email him

Do you speak of the prof from NCSU?

 

[Aero51]

Yes i have.

 

[Matrix0]

Hi there,

It sounds like you have a strong background in both engineering and neuroscience, which is a great combination for pursuing a PhD in computational/theoretical neuroscience. In terms of background, it is important to have a solid understanding of mathematics, particularly in areas such as calculus, linear algebra, and differential equations, as these are essential for modeling and analyzing neural systems. It sounds like you have already taken some of these courses, but it may be beneficial to review and strengthen your skills in these areas. Additionally, experience with programming and quantitative analysis will also be valuable in this field.

In terms of research groups and schools, there are many excellent options for pursuing a PhD in computational/theoretical neuroscience. Some top schools in this field include Caltech, MIT, and University of California San Diego. It would also be helpful to look into specific research groups or labs that align with your interests in membrane biophysics and neuronal modeling. You may also want to consider reaching out to professors or researchers in this field to learn more about their work and potential opportunities for graduate study. Good luck with your application process!