There is no substitute for the life-changing experience of dissecting the human brain, and no better way to learn, by both sight and touch, the three-dimensional brain.

This course is intended for postgraduate and postdoctoral researchers studying cognitive neuroscience. International students from outside the United States are eligible to apply. The course is supported by the James S. McDonnell Foundation. There are no course fees and all participants will be provided with accommodation at no cost and reasonable travel costs will be re-imbursed.

Functional neuroanatomy is taught in the context of neurological patients with impairments due to focal brain lesions – to bring neuroanatomy to life and make it relevant to students of cognitive neuroscience.

We begin with case conferences in which patients with neurological signs of lesion to a system or pathway are interviewed and examined, and in which the techniques of neurological examination and principles of localization are highlighted. The patient’s scans will be reviewed for clinic-anatomical correlation relating signs and symptoms to radiological anatomy. In the dissection lab, students will gain a 3D familiarity with brain structure, by sight and touch, to be correlated with what they see in case conferences and scan reviews.

Bangor is located in a breathtaking landscape with panoramic views, and is rich with history, culture and charm. The University itself plays an important part in the city’s history and identity: it was built in 1884 following funding by local quarrymen who volunteered to give some of their wages towards providing a better standard of higher education. To find out more about Bangor and the local area, please visit the ‘Where?’ page.