Introduction

Foundations of Neuroscience was designed for undergraduate students enrolled in a 1-semester introductory neuroscience course. This book specifically targets students enrolled in NRS 250: Foundations of Neuroscience at Grinnell College. Given the context of this course within our curriculum, it emphasizes neuroscience topics at the cellular level. Behavioral topics are not covered explicitly, but only described within the context of cellular mechanisms. It is my desire that students will gain familiarity with and a working-knowledge of the basic mechanisms that underly the function of the nervous system. Worthy goals in themselves, they should also provide a foundation for future courses and research in all areas of neuroscience.

This text incorporates material from three open educational resources aimed at undergraduate neuroscience students:

Foundations of Neuroscience by Casey Henley, Michigan State University

Introduction to Neuroscience by Valerie Hedges, Michigan State University

The Open Neuroscience Initiative by Austin Lim, DePaul University

Original content includes Chapters 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 20 and modification or supplements to what was provided in the above texts.

Find errors or have suggestions? Please email lindgren@grinnell.edu