The Physiology Department, functioning within the broader Psychology Department, plays a crucial role in exploring the biological foundations of behavior and mental processes. This interdisciplinary unit bridges the gap between psychology and the biological sciences by focusing on how the body—particularly the brain and nervous system—affects thoughts, emotions, and actions.
Core Focus Areas:
- Neurophysiology: Understanding how neurons and brain structures function to produce behavior and cognition.
- Biopsychology/Behavioral Neuroscience: Investigating the interaction between biological processes and psychological phenomena, such as stress, emotion, memory, and perception.
- Psychophysiology: Measuring physiological responses (e.g., heart rate, brain waves, hormonal levels) to study psychological states and disorders.
- Endocrinology and Behavior: Exploring how hormonal systems influence behavior and mental health.
Academic & Research Objectives:
- To provide foundational knowledge of human physiology as it relates to psychological functioning.
- To train students in experimental and research methods involving physiological measurement tools like EEG, EMG, ECG, and neuroimaging.
- To support research into mental health, neurodevelopmental disorders, and cognitive neuroscience.
- To collaborate with clinical psychology, cognitive psychology, and other branches to provide a holistic understanding of the human mind and body.
Facilities & Resources:
- State-of-the-art labs equipped for neurophysiological and psychophysiological research.
- Access to tools like EEG machines, biofeedback systems, and hormone assay facilities.
Career Pathways for Students:
Graduates with a strong foundation in physiological psychology can pursue careers in:
- Clinical neuropsychology
- Neuroscience research
- Psychophysiological assessment
- Cognitive rehabilitation
- Biomedical research
