CortexCast - A Neuroscience Podcast

We discuss all-optical interrogation techniques and the mysterious claustrum. Paula Kaanders and Lukas Krone talk to Dr Adam Packer from the Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Genetics about his work on all-optical interrogation techniques: a technology that enables him to read and write neural activity. Besides this, we talk about his recent interest in the claustrum, a brain region we know little about. Adam also discusses his career path and his advice to graduate students.

Professor Catherine Harmer, an expert in emotional processing and depression, shares insights into the brain mechanisms behind depression. She delves into the effects of antidepressant medications on emotional responses, revealing how cognitive biases shape perceptions in those affected. Catherine also discusses innovative treatments, including rapid-acting antidepressants and brain stimulation. Additionally, she offers advice for graduate students on navigating research challenges and emphasizes the importance of balancing academic pursuits with personal passions.

We discuss the Neuroscience of Pain perception Lukas Krone and Alex von Klemperer talk to Prof Irene Tracey of the Oxford Nuffield Clinical Neurosciences Department about her pioneering work studying chronic and acute pain through neuroimaging as well as some of her more recent projects on Aneasthetic depth. We also discuss how she approaches both being a scientist and taking on executive roles such as head of department and her life outside of science.

We discuss Auditory Neuroscience in particular during vocal learning Auditory Neurobiologist Prof Richard Mooney from the Duke University joins Alex and Sam to discuss his work on the Neuroscience behind vocal learning and communication. We explore how the brain processes sounds and how this may be different during vocal learning or other movements that generate sound. We also discuss Prof Mooney's perspective on the advances in neurophysiology and how his love of music influenced his decisions to study auditory neuroscience. More information at www.cortexclub.com. Theme music is by Eves Blue

We discuss how the Brain processes vision. Holly Bridge from the Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging discusses how the visual system works. We also talk about how visual processing is studied and what the brain does when sensory input from the eyes is disrupted. More information at www.cortexclub.com. Theme music is by Eves Blue.

Vladyslav Vyazovskiy, a distinguished sleep scientist from Oxford University, dives deep into the science of sleep. He explores the various functions of sleep, revealing its complexities beyond just rest. Listeners learn about his unique journey from zoology to sleep research and the innovative methods he's employed. The conversation also touches on paradoxical insomnia, the impact of slow-wave activity on brain function, and how sleep is integral to learning and survival in different species.

We talk through what listeners can expect from future episodes of CortexCast. In this introductory episode Alex, Paula and Samuel explain the purpose of this new podcast series and how it came about. We also offer a sneak peek at some of the upcoming episodes.