We had a great discussion which ranged from the history of connectomics and circuit mapping in model organisms to the purpose of a model and the utility of computational modeling and understanding invertebrate network dynamics in ultimately understanding how larger networks like the brain may function.The conclusion of the discussion was that the future of neuroscience lies in understanding the simultaneous activity of hundreds of thousands of neurons in coordinating behavior.
We look forward to continuing the discussion at the next pasta night!
Thanks to our chefs and everyone who helped clean up and organize for the night!
The first departmental Pasta Night Discussion was a big success. We had a lot of fun cooking and discussing together the connectome. The event provided the opportunity to exchange ideas in a candid and informal manner resulting in a unique enriching experience for all the participants. Please see the following link for a summary of the discussion:
We are initiating a new departmental activity on Wednesday December 10th. The idea is to have fun preparing dinner together and discussing a current neuroscience topic. Hopefully, this less structured and fun activity will stimulate more spontaneous interactions and collaborations between all of us in the department. Everyone is welcome, students, faculty and staff.
The topic for the first pasta night is “The Connectome”. The discussion will be led by Scott Emmons who provided the following background reading (attached). Please come to share your thoughts and perspectives. Is the connectome the best thing since sliced bread or a total waste of time?
WHEN: Wednesday, December 10th
WHERE: Kennedy 901
TIME:
5:00pm: A group of us will start cooking and setting up. The menu includes Fettuccini “Cacio e pepe” and Papardelle “all’ Amattriciana”. White and Red will be wines selected by our own expert Costa Dobrenis.
6:00pm: Dinner and discussion led by Scott.
Please come join us for cooking and a nice discussion.
EVERYONE IS WELCOME!
Updates:
From Scott:
Everybody come with a favorite neuron in mind that they would like to know the connectivity of: Imagine that Gerry Rubin has offered you a lab at Janelia Farm and the services of Davie Bock and his giant electron microscope to determine the connectivity of any neuron you want. But first, you have to explain to Gerry what neuron it would be and why you want to know its connectivity.
From Pablo:
Here is link to another paper for background reading:
