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Translational Neuroscience
Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:47:06
Abstract
This course connects the clinical reality of common neuropsychiatric diseases to the underlying brain circuits, and explores how basic research helps to identify disease mechanisms and treatments. In a flipped-classroom setting, project teams will explore the interplay between basic research and clinical needs based on existing treatments for neuropsychiatric disorders.
Objective
By the end of the course, students will be able to explain how changes in fundamental brain processes can give rise to neuropsychiatric disease. They will have an understanding of the clinical reality of diagnosing and treating such disorders. Ultimately, the students will be able to evaluate how basic research can address clinical needs, and they will be able to explain how preclinical research and treatment options for neurological diseases are linked, and how a treatment can evolve from the interplay between basic research and clinical trials. During the flipped classroom projects, students will learn to (1) critically read scientific publications for a specific disease and disease model; (2) synthesize the relevant information in a presentation; (3) evaluate each other’s presentations; (4) provide constructive feedback to their peers.
Content
This course evaluates the clinical and basic research aspects for some of the most vexing neuropsychiatric disorder, including affective disorders (anxiety and depression), Alzheimer’s Disease, Addiction, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Parkinson’s Disease and Stress-related disorders. Each disorder is presented from a clinical perspective in one lecture, and from a basic research perspective in a corresponding lecture the week after. Part of the course is a student project: In groups of approximately 4, the students select from a list of breakthrough treatments for neuropsychiatric disorders and explore how the treatment has been discovered/developed. Students will conduct literature research and put together a videopresentation that summarizes their findings for their fellow students. They emphasize the translational process - the back and forth between the clinics and basic research - and put the process into a historical context.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- BSC , MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- end-of-semester examination
- Mode
- written 90 minutes
- Aids
- None
- Digital
- The exam takes place on devices provided by ETH Zurich.
Registration & Places
- Signup End
- 22.02.2026
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | Translational Neuroscience |
|
3 h weekly |