NEUR103 KS - Neurobiology of Motivation, Reward & Addiction

What are the neural mechanisms that motivate you to get out of bed? What’s in that morning cup of coffee that stimulates your brain? Why are some individuals more susceptible to addiction than others? These are some of the questions we will explore throughout this course while focusing on the neurobiology of motivation, reward and addiction. We will examine the neurotransmitters, cells, genes, and circuits that drive motivation and reward with a focus on how these pathways intersect with the complex and treatable brain disorder known as addiction. Students in this course will build a strong foundational understanding of several neurobiological concepts and be introduced to current research techniques used to study the brain.

Prerequisites: BIOL 044L KS, CHEM 029L KS, NEUR 095L JT (strongly recommended)

Offered: Once per year

Credit: 1

Course Number: NEUR103 KS