This lecture and laboratory course will expose Latin-American students/Faculty to recent advances and modern techniques in neurosciences, using invertebrates as model systems. The course will primarily focus on Drosophila melanogaster and Caenorhabditis elegans, and the use of these animal models both in basic neuroscience and biomedical research. Invertebrate model systems amenable to genetic manipulation have been fundamental in elucidating major neuroscience processes, such as circadian rhythms, ion channel function, and pattern formation during development. The course will include areas ranging from genetic approaches to the study of the nervous system, brain development, cellular and molecular neuroscience, analysis of brain circuits, navigational mechanisms of migrating monarch butterflies and behavior. Instructors will be both faculty members from the host institutions as well as renowned scientists in each field. This will allow students not only to gain first hand experience with approaches in these model systems, but also to interact and network with leaders in the specific areas of research.

The course will be hosted by the Facultad de Medicina Universidad de Chile, Santiago, and the Centro Interdiciplinario De Neurosciencia, Valparaiso, Chile.

The basic expenses (course materials, lodging and most meals) for the students will be covered by the Course, which is funded by IBRO and AMSUD-Pasteur. Travel costs will also be covered for a limited number of students. The necessity for travel support must be indicated in the intention letter together with the cost to be covered.