Fundamental Themes in Neurosciences - Adrienne Fairhall

Variability and learning in birdsong

Adrienne Fairhall, Ph.D. Associate Professor, Dept of Physiology and Biophysics University of Washington and UW Institute for Neuroengineering

Host: Kelly Zalocusky

Abstract

The birdsong system has become a paradigmatic example of biological learning. In this talk we will discuss how detailed biological responses can help this system to implement reinforcement learning. In particular, we will discuss the potential role of a newly identified excitatory neural signal in basal ganglia and how it may help to modulate basal ganglia synchrony and the variability required for learning.