Because of the generous commitment of the college and its alumni to neuroscience and because of the success of the neuroscience faculty in obtaining federal and private research support, Williams enjoys state-of-the-art facilities. These include research and teaching labs equipped to perform:
- Anatomical studies at both the light and electron microscopic levels. Light microscopes are available for studies using Nomarski differential contrast optics, phase optics, and fluorescent activation (including confocal microscopy). Modern instruments are available for both transmission and scanning electron microscopy.
- Facilities are available for neuromorphometry, computer assisted 3-D reconstructions, and standard histology and immunocytochemistry, as well as facilities for performing microinjections.
- Electrophysiological research including patch clamp recording, intracellular recording, and single and multiple unit recording from animals, as well as evoked potentials from both animals and humans.
- Facilities and expertise in the optogenetic activation and inhibition of neuronal populations.
- Behavioral testing in a variety of species including telemetric monitoring of behavioral and physiological states, self-administration of addictive substances, classical and operant conditioning, automated recording and analysis of vocalizations, activity monitors for Drosophila, and rodent maze systems with automated tracking.
- Instrumentation for EEG recording and eye tracking.
- Surgical facilities for use with a variety of species.
- Professionally staffed animal care facilities.
- Fully-equipped and staffed machine and electronic shops.