Device for eliciting Optokinetic and Optomotor responses from live
zebrafish
Professor: Sreelaja Nair
UID: BB01
BB01
Description: The project will involve building a small
device for obtaining optokinetic (ability to focus eyes on a
moving object) and optomotor (ability to maintain balance when
in motion, eg swimming against a water current) neural responses
in zebrafish. Zebrafish are small fresh water fish used as model
organisms in our lab.
Number of students: 2
Year of study: Students entering 3rd year, Students
entering 4th/5th year
CPI: 8 and above
Prerequisites: Background in electronics and computer
coding is required.
Duration: 4 to 6 months. Can be shorter if device is
built and tested ok.
Learning outcome: The student will learn to build small
device for use with live zebrafish for behavioural assays.
Student will learn to handle and work with zebrafish. Student
will learn to connect the relevance of basic research for
translational medicine in humans.
Weekly time commitment:3 hours per day for 5 days a week
for ~6 months
General expectations: Should be serious and committed
about execution and completion of project.
Assignment: search for zebrafish optokinetic and
optomotor response will provide relevant literature which
student can read.
Instructions for assignment: Student will be asked what
they have understood about optokinetic and optomotor responses
and how it is relevant for human health