Introduction to FMRI

This course covers the basic principles of Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI), including the physical principles of signal generation in MRI and the relation of neuronal activity with the blood-oxygen-level-dependent (BOLD) signal. The course emphasizes techniques to conduct experiments investigating the functional activity of the nervous system, and statistical analysis of the fMRI data. Weekly hands-on sessions are held using the in-campus MRI scanner. The objectives of the course are to gain a basic understanding of physical and biological concepts of fMRI; a basic knowledge of fMRI data collection and the operation of the scanner (through weekly hands-on sessions); a basic knowledge of fMRI experimental design.