Research Projects
Computation in single neuronal dendrites

The goal of this project is to define the basic information processing unit of the brain. The complex hierarchical structure of neuronal dendrites and their range of excitable properties have inspired theoretical and experimental work that has suggested that dendrites could implement high-level information processing capabilities. We will test this idea by taking advantage of a new generation of genetically encoded sensors for calcium, voltage and neurotransmitters, which allow synaptic signals in dendrites to be measured directly using in vivo two-photon microscopy. This will enable us to test longstanding ideas about how single dendrites can act as independent computational units, and how they might be engaged to support behaviourally relevant computations. This is a joint experimental and modelling project so would suit students interested in either or both directions.

Professor M Häusser, School of Biomedical Sciences

Michael Häusser received his PhD from Oxford University under the supervision of Julian Jack. He subsequently worked with Nobel Laureate Bert Sakmann at the Max-Planck-Institute for Medical Research in Heidelberg and with Philippe Ascher at the Ecole Normale Superieure in Paris. He established his own laboratory at UCL in 1997 where he became Professor of Neuroscience in 2001. His group is interested in understanding the cellular basis of neural computation in the brain using a combination of experiments and theory, with a special focus on the role of dendrites. His group has helped to pioneer several new optical approaches for probing the function of individual neural circuit elements in order to link their function with behaviour.

Biography
HKU Scholars Hub
Lab Page
ORCID
hausser@hku.hk

For more information or to express interest for this project, please email the supervisor or the specified contact point in the project description.  Interested candidates are advised to enclose with your email:

1. your CV,
2. a brief description of your research interest and experience, and
3. two reference letters (not required for HKUMed UG students seeking MRes[Med]/URIS projects).

Information on the research programme, funding support and admission documentations could be referenced online at the Research Postgraduate Admissions website. General admission enquiries should be directed to rpgmed@hku.hk.

HKUMed MBBS students interested in the Master of Research in Medicine (MRes[Med]) programme may visit the programme website for more information.  

HKUMed UG students interested in the Undergraduate Research Internship Scheme (URIS) may visit the scheme’s website for more information.