Timing the Brain: Circadian Clocks and Their Role in Neural Function and Behavior

Circadian clocks regulate not only sleep but also a wide range of neural functions and behaviors, shaping how organisms adapt to their environments. This course explores the neural mechanisms driving circadian rhythms and their implications for brain function, cognitive processes, and translational neuroscience. Students examine the interplay between circadian rhythms, neural circuits, and behavior, with a focus on their roles in neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders. This course uniquely emphasizes the translational applications of circadian research—bridging foundational neuroscience with real-world challenges. Topics include chronotherapy for neurodegenerative diseases, light-based interventions for psychiatric disorders, and the impact of urban environments on circadian health. By connecting foundational biology to clinical and societal contexts, this course equips students with practical skills and interdisciplinary knowledge not covered elsewhere in the curriculum.