Neuroethology 2050

The two-day GRS provides a unique opportunity for young researchers to discuss current and future issues in the field. Neuroethology is the study of the neural basis of naturally occurring animal behavior. Within the larger discipline of neuroscience it seeks to understand biodiversity from the perspective of neural systems and behavior. This seminar is a chance for the next generation of scientists to imagine what the field will look like in the year 2050.

The theme “Neuroethology 2050” seeks to generate discussion amongst students and postdoctoral researchers, not only of their current research, but also on methodological and conceptual developments that will be required to advance our understanding of the neural basis of natural behavior. Participants will have the chance to build informal networks with their peers that may lead to a lifetime of collaboration and scientific achievement. Discussions will include - but by no means be limited to - the application of new techniques for monitoring animal behavior under natural conditions, the role of functional brain imaging in neuroethology, the relationship of gene expression to neural circuits, and new developments in modeling, including robotics. Contributions will be in the form of short talks or posters.

The seminar is held in Oxford on August 9-10, 2008, the weekend prior to the Gordon Research Conference “Neuroethology: Behavior, Evolution, and Neurobiology” (August 10-15, 2008). Students and post-docs who are accepted to “Neuroethology 2050” will be accepted into the GRC provided that they apply to both.