Neuroscience is defined as, “the study of the structure and function of the brain and nervous System”. Essentially it is the branch of biology that seeks to help humans understand how both the Brain and Nervous Systems grow, develop, and function. Furthermore, the difference between Neuroscience and Neurobiology is that neuroscience is the study of anything to do with the Brain and Nervous System, while Neurobiology only focuses on the biology of the nervous system. Today Neuroscience is an extremely large field, with Neuroscientists studying everything from the computational, medical, and cellular features of the nervous system. Furthermore, Neuroscience is such a complex field that scientists had to break it up into smaller pieces to study. The scientists called these smaller units levels of analysis. The levels of analysis in Neuroscience are Molecular, Cellular, Systems, Behavioral, and Cognitive Neuroscience.
Molecular Neuroscience
The brain is the most complex structure in the universe. The brain is so complex that many of its molecules are exclusive to the central nervous system (CNS). For example, Glia is a non-neuronal molecule found in the brain whose main purpose is to insulate, provide physical support, and nourish neurons. Glia is just one example of the multitude of molecules found in the CNS. The study of the brain’s molecules is called Molecular Neuroscience. Some careers at this level of analysis are Science Writer, Health Educator, and Medical Technician, as well as careers in the fields of biotechnology and medicine.
Cellular Neuroscience
In terms of complexity, the next level of analysis is Cellular Neuroscience. This level focuses on studying how all the molecules in the Nervous System work together to make neurons what they are. Some questions scientists at this level are studying are,
How do neural cells communicate with each other?
Can neurons influence other neurons?
How do neurons perform computations?
The fields of Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience are closely intertwined, as the structure of neural cells directly relates to their function. This is why certain colleges such as MIT offer Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience Programs that allow students to immerse themselves in the field of Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience.
Systems Neuroscience
Groups of neurons form complicated circuits that execute common functions such as vision, audio, voluntary movement, speech, and learning. These groups of neurons are called systems. Furthermore, their common function gives way to their name. For example, the neurons in charge of processing audio make up the auditory system, while the neurons in charge of movement make up the motor system. The brain has multiple systems and scientists studying this level try to understand how they form and function.
Behavioral Neuroscience
In this level of analysis, scientists study the relationship between the brain’s neurotransmitters and psychological events. Behavioral Neuroscience can also be called Biological Psychology. Behavioral Neuroscientists often study topics such as Autism, Bipolar Disorder, Epilepsy, Aging, Sleep, and Trauma. Some jobs in this field are Lab Leaders, Research Assistants, and Principal Investigators. Additionally, people looking to work in this field can expect to work in Academic Hospitals or Research Universities.
Cognitive Neuroscience
This is the most complex level of analysis as it deals with the more complex theoretical questions that deal with consciousness, self-awareness, imagination, and language. Furthermore, the main question this specialty seeks to answer is, How does the brain’s activity create the mind? This is a constantly evolving field as new research is always being published. Some subjects that Cognitive Science majors study are Computer Science, Philosophy, Economics, Neuroscience, and Psychology. In addition, people who take a degree in Cognitive Science are in high demand as they have an interdisciplinary skillset
Conclusion
In conclusion, the five levels of analysis in Neuroscience are incredibly complex. These fields were created to allow scientists to deeply understand certain elements of Neuroscience. Many reputable universities such as Brown, Vassar, Georgetown, and more offer outstanding neuroscience programs that would allow one to study each level deeply.
Works Cited
“Careers in Neuroscience | Neuroscience.” Princeton.edu, 2019, pni.princeton.edu/undergraduate-concentration/careers-neuroscience.
“Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience | UCSB Neuroscience | UC Santa Barbara.” Neuroscience.ucsb.edu, neuroscience.ucsb.edu/research/molecular-and-cellular-neuroscience.
Nordqvist, Christian. “About Neuroscience - Department of Neuroscience.” Department of Neuroscience, 2013, neuro.georgetown.edu/about-neuroscience/.
“Texas A&M Career Center - Neuroscience - Molecular and Cellular Track.” Tamu.edu, 2022, careercenter.tamu.edu/Resources/Exploring_Career_Paths/Careers-Salaries-and-Employers-by-Major/Neuroscience-Molecular-and-Cellular-Track. Accessed 13 Sept. 2022.
“What Is Behavioral Neuroscience? Definition & FAQs.” EMOTIV, www.emotiv.com/glossary/behavioral-neuroscience/.
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