Neural Integration and Sensory Pathways

How is it possible for you to smell any of your favorite or not-so-favorite aromas? Why are you able to see in color? What allows you to hear music, feel pain, or know where your body is in relation to the world? Neuroscience helps us answer each of these questions. A fundamental branch of neuroscience research aims to understand how cells called neurons come together into circuits and allow you to perceive through the senses, as well as how sensory information is integrated to form behavioral responses. 

Investigate key neuroscience topics:   

  • Neural circuits  
  • Genetic programs in relation to building neural circuits  
  • Neural circuits for sensory systems   
  • Relationships between neuron morphology and function  
  • How molecular receptor convert physical stimuli into neural activity 
  • How experience shapes your perception 

Delve into the neurobiology of sensory perception through hands-on experiences in the lab and lectures from leaders at Duke University and in the field. Explore computational tools used to study genes and their roles in sensory circuit development, visualize sensory circuits under the microscope, and perform sensory experiments to investigate the relationship between experience and perception.   

 

How to Apply

Duke Pre-College uses a 2-step enrollment process: 

  1. First, students apply to the Pre-College program, indicating their course(s) of interest. 
     
  2. After they receive notification of their acceptance into Duke Pre-College, they enroll in the course(s) indicated in their Pre-College Application. 

Learn more on our How to Apply page.