This is a course in which lectures emphasize recent research topics and students carry out a substantial research project with PhD students, postdoctoral researchers and senior academics in the School of Biology (Research School of Biological Sciences and the School of Botany and Zoology).  Entry to this option will be subject to the approval of the course convenor. 

The course will examine current topics in Sensory Physiology and Neural Control of Behaviour (Neuroethology), such as:

• Sensory ecology
• Animal communication & navigation
• Endocrine systems
• Control of reproduction

The emphasis is on information processing in animals under natural conditions, both with regard to environmental variables and internal states, including the design of sensory systems in relation to environment and life style. Topics covered may vary between years and students are advised to check the syllabus with the course convenor.

Note: Graduate students attend joint classes with undergraduates but are assessed separately.

On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. Describe and understand the way in which light, sound, mechanical forces and chemicals are being sensed and coded in sensory systems
2. Identify, explain and analyse the information content of different sensory modalities
3. Assess and analyse the structure and knowledge-base of animal navigation and animal communication
4. Describe the neural and hormonal processes that control rhythms, reproduction and feeding
5. Conduct and critically assess measurements and experiments on colour & motion vision, on functional morphology of insect eyes and on animal navigation
6. Write a scientific report on an extended research project in neuroethology (one of ANU's research strengths)

Assessment will be based on:

• Mid-term examination (25%; LO 1-4)
• Oral and written reports on research project (40%; LO 5, 6)
• Final examination (35%; LO 1-4)

3 hours of lectures per week, a six-week long project and an extended essay on a chosen topic

Bachelor of Science or equivalent with a major in the field of biological sciences with relevant experience or academic achievement. 

First year Biology, first year Genetics and first year Statistics are recommended. 

First year Chemistry is desirable. 

Courses in Physics & Neuroscience