Workshop – Aging and Movement in the Drosophila Model
Movement, Aging and Behavior – An Experiment with Drosophila
Target group: from grade 10
Maximum number of participants: 24
Duration: 4 hours
Prerequisites: none
Cost: free of charge
Description
How does behavior change with age? And how can the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster help us understand neurodegenerative processes?
In this workshop, participants get to know Drosophila – a well-established model organism in neuroscience. The focus is on the so-called climbing assay: a simple yet powerful behavioral experiment that provides insights into the motor abilities of young and aged fruit flies.
Students plan and conduct the experiment independently, analyze the data, and present their findings – experiencing first-hand what scientific work looks like in practice. The program is complemented by short theoretical introductions to neuroethology and the institute’s research, as well as informal talks with scientists.
Keywords
- Neuroethology
- Aging & behavior
- Model organism Drosophila melanogaster
- Climbing assay
- Neurodegeneration
- Hands-on experimentation
- Career orientation
Program highlights (selection)
- Introduction to Drosophila as a model organism
- Planning and conducting the climbing assay
- Comparing young and aged fruit flies
- Data analysis and results presentation
- Talks with scientists about research and career paths
Learning objectives
- Understanding the connection between aging and behavior
- Conducting and analyzing simple behavioral experiments
- Gaining insights into neuroscience research and career opportunities
Interested?
Please contact our Public Outreach Officer Julia Schlee