RAD3004 · Neuroimaging for neuroscience research

Overview

In this unit, you will learn and examine the principles and applications of different neuroimaging approaches in neuroscience and neurological research. The unit will enable you to propose and evaluate the formulation of a research study with functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). You will examine neuroimaging experimental paradigms and contemporary evidence-based approaches for collection, processing, analysis and presentation of neuroimaging data, with a focus on the fMRI data. You will also learn to justify the role of the researcher for the MRI safety issues. You will learn to determine benefits and limitations of different neuroimaging approaches in the investigation of the brain structure and function in healthy and diseased individuals. After completion of the unit, you will be able to provide a recommendation for quality assurance and quality control principles to neuroimaging studies of the brain and the central nervous system and learn the process of scientific review and feedback in neuroimaging research for quality control and improved and comprehensive outcomes.

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

Learning outcomes

1. Explain the underlying principles, strengths and weaknesses of different neuroimaging approaches in neuroscience and neurological research.
2. Critique applications of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and other neuroimaging approaches in neuroscience and neurological investigations and their findings.
3. Justify the different components required for a neuroimaging investigation with fMRI, inclusive of scanning protocol and MRI safety issues.
4. Evaluate the approaches for collection, processing, analysis and presentation of neuroimaging data for MRI studies of the brain structure and function in the neuroimaging literature.
5. Examine the contemporary evidence in neuroimaging research and formulate appropriate quality control measures for different neuroimaging approaches.
6. Evaluate the evidence in the neuroimaging literature and scientific feedback to formulate strategies for an improved comprehensive neuroimaging study.

Workload

5 hours of teacher directed study per week, including 2 hours of lectures, 1 hour of tutorials, and 2 hours of workshops. 7 hours per week of self-directed study. Total per week = 12 hours

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.