Exploring the Brain: Hands-on Neuroimaging

About

This course goes beyond conventional lecture-based instruction by placing you at the heart of the research process. Through hands-on scanning, data analysis, literature exploration, and seminar participation, you will learn how MRI and fMRI are used to investigate the human brain — and will apply that knowledge to design, conduct, and present their own neuroimaging project.

The course integrates foundational concepts in neuroimaging and clinical neuroscience through hands-on, research-based learning. You will learn how to operate an MRI scanner to collect brain images and will work in teams of two to three to design and conduct mini research projects based on the data they acquire. Through this process, you will gain practical experience with MRI hardware and scanning, experimental design, basic image processing, and scientific writing and presentation.

You will also attend a series of one-hour seminars led by neuroscientists and clinicians who share insights from their extensive research experience. These sessions are designed to situate classroom learning in real-world contexts, highlighting how neuroimaging is applied in both clinical practice and research. Topics may include neurodegenerative diseases, psychiatric disorders, brain injury, and advanced diagnostic imaging. The seminars offer you a unique opportunity to engage directly with experts, explore the translational impact of neuroimaging, and deepen their understanding of its role in both patient care and neuroscience research.

Target group

This module will be suited to 2nd year University level students and is ideal for pre-medical students, neuroscience majors, and any undergraduate interested in medical imaging, brain research, or data-driven science. It is particular suited to those looking for practical experience and exposure ahead of applications to medical school or health careers.

Course aim

1. Describe the fundamental physical principles that result in image contrast in MRI

2. Acquire and process anatomical (MRI), functional (fMRI), and physiological (physMRI) brain images, and explain their differences in both research and clinical contexts

3. Design a simple fMRI experiment and present the resulting data in the format of a research paper

4. Critically synthesize current research in neuroimaging through seminar attendance and targeted literature searches, and integrate these insights into experimental design and data interpretation

5. Present the results of a group project in the format of a conference presentation, and demonstrate an understanding of the basics of grant writing by using the project to identify knowledge gaps

Fee info

The full cost of one 3-week Undergraduate Summer School session will be £3335. Early applications will receive a 20% reduction on tuition fees, making the overall cost of one 3-week Undergraduate Summer School session £2990. If you wish to study for both sessions, we welcome you to do so. Fees are made up of Tuition fees of £1725 and Lab fees of £350 per session including all teaching and assessment for one module of study. A minimum of 40 class/teaching contact hours and 150 study hours. Modules formally approved for 15 Sussex credits, equivalent to 7.5 ECTS or 3 – 4 US credits. You will receive a transcript of studies upon successful completion of the module (including meeting all attendance and assessment requirements). The accommodation and social programme fee of £1260 per session includes your own bedroom in on-campus student village. These are a mixture of en-suite flats and standard flats with shared facilities. You will receive a bedding pack of duvet and duvet cover, sheet, towel, pillow, and pillowcase, as well as a kitchen pack containing everything you need for self-catering. The fee includes a programme of campus social events and activities throughout each session. Excursions and social programme trips will also be provided on Fridays.