Cognitive Neuroscience Initiative School of Integrated Science and Humanity
Cognitive Neuroscience Initiative The mystery of the human mind is one of immense complexity. Under the Cognitive Neuroscience Initiative, Florida International University (FIU) researchers are analyzing brain development, brain function and the neurological basis of behavior. These
scientists are investigating possible applications of their pioneering research to advance the treatment of nervous system disorders. They hope to map one of science’s last frontiers – the human brain.
FIU scientists are studying cognitive neuroscience in order to truly understand the organization of the nervous
system and its impact on human experience. Because discoveries in this field require exploring ideas that transcend disciplines, they are working to bridge the gap between the physical and behavioral sciences.
The Human Experience
This bold comprehensive approach opens the door to developing uniquely effective solutions to a wide array of problems such as sensory and motor function, learning and memory, language, and spatial and social cognition at multiple levels. These extensive studies of the brain, neural circuitry and molecular processes must include the examination of physical, social and cultural
environments that will further contribute to our knowledge of human health. As a leading public research university, FIU is committed to innovative research and educational discoveries, as well as making a difference in the community and society at large. Within this context, FIU scientists have particular strengths in three pillars of cognitive neuroscience: • Neurocognition: vision and multisensory processing, language and spatial development, problem solving and
consciousness with a specific focus on such areas as addiction, ADHD, and disruptive behavior as well as ethical, social and conceptual issues related to the mind and brain
• Neurological disorders: research in developmental, neurological and degenerative diseases relating to the structure and function of neuronal circuitry which lead to disorders such as Parkinson’s, Huntington’s, autism and epilepsy
• Neurorehabilitation: restoring functionality in people with spinal, orthopedic and other injuries and disabilities by advancing the field of neuroprostheses; creating forward-looking, early interventional therapeutic strategies and early education programs and services for children with disabilities.
School of Integrated Science and Humanity
Faculty
Graduate Certificate
The distinguished and nationally prominent faculty involved in
As part of this initiative, the School of Integrated Science
the Cognitive Neuroscience Initiative utilize the tools of the basic and behavioral sciences as well as advanced brain imaging technologies to better understand the normal development of the mind and brain. Scientists and researchers at FIU are working to
and Humanity offers a graduate certificate in Cognitive Neuroscience. It is a 15-credit interdisciplinary program designed to advance the scientific education and professional development of students through coursework covering a broad
determine how the brain functions and its implications for modern
range of areas of neuroscience.
medicine and neural health.
The curriculum concentrates on theory and methodology for
The initiative brings together experts from the departments of
conducting and analyzing research in this field and its potential
Psychology, Physics, Chemistry, Philosophy and Biological Sciences with the applied fields of Medicine, Biomedical Engineering and Education. These faculty seek to uncover the mechanisms of neurodegenerative disorders in order to restore physical and cognitive functionality.
application to education and clinical practice. Participants in this program will be able to utilize the innovative training they receive to advance to higher levels of excellence in professional practice and research. For a full list of graduate level courses, visit sish.fiu.edu/initiatives. The program is available to post-baccalaureate, master’s and
Lecture Series The Cognitive Neuroscience lecture series provides unique and stimulating opportunities for students, faculty and the public to interact, discuss, and debate with leading neuroscientists and scholars. The lectures are held at FIU’s Modesto A. Maidique Campus. For additional information about the series, sish.fiu.edu/initiatives.
doctoral students. Applicants must be in a graduate program or have a minimum grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale during the last two years of upper division undergraduate coursework.
The School of Integrated Science and Humanity is fulfilling a part of Florida International University’s greater, global mission to be a major international education center that fosters mutual understanding throughout the world. The school is an integral part of the College of Arts & Sciences, which provides the educational foundation for FIU students to be successful and engaged citizens in a global society. FIU is Miami-Dade County’s first public, four-year research university, maintaining an enrollment of 48,000 students, more than 1,000 faculty members and 155,000 alumni. School of Integrated Science and Humanity College of Arts & Sciences Florida International University 11200 SW 8th Street, DM 445 Miami, FL 33199
Phone: 305-348-4282 Fax: 305-348-4289 E-mail: sish@fiu.edu
sish.fiu.edu
For more information about online programs offered by the College of Arts & Sciences, visit cas.fiu.edu. For general information, visit www.fiu.edu Florida International University is an Equal Opportunity/Access Employer and Institution.
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