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Department of Biology

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Matheson Neurobiology Group

Research carried out in our laboratory asks how adaptability (plasticity) in the nervous system tailors the behaviours of animals to their changing environment.

 

Our main approach is to combine electrophysiological recording techniques with quantitative behavioural analyses in insects while they carry out their natural movements. We collaborate with engineers to model the limb movements and to develop innovative signal processing techniques.

 

 Flying locust

 

We are presently working on two main projects:

  • We are examining biomechanics and neuronal control of aimed limb movements in locusts.
  • We are characterising neuronal pathways involved in the change of solitary locusts into their swarm-forming gregarious phase.

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    Further details are available here.