The 2003 Lecture Series

Each summer the Research Apprenticeship Program hosts a lecture series of speakers from Monell. The lectures are technical in nature but structured for high school and undergraduate students. The lectures are generally interactive and hands-on. The variety of lecture topics ensures that each student will learn about multiple areas of research conducted at Monell. In addition to the educational value of the lecture material, the students also see first hand how a scientist presents theory and results in a professional manner. Listed below are the speakers, titles, and abstracts for the 2003 program lecture series.


Dr. Paul Wise -"Introduction to Psychophysics"
The seminar will provide a general introduction to the basic concepts behind the measurement of sensory thresholds. We will begin with a demonstration in which participants attempt to detect differences in the length of two lines. I will explain the psychophysical theory behind measurement and analysis of threshold data using the line-length task as an example.


Dr. Yanina Pepino -"Learning about taste and smell early in life"
Flavor is the sum total of all the sensory experiences we have when food enters the mouth. The total perception is a combination of aroma, taste, irritation, temperature and texture. Since the perceptions arising from taste and smell are often confused, we will first establish a basic understanding of how they interact and integrate to produce the overall impression of flavor. Then, we will explore how early we start learning about the sensory world and how very early flavor experiences may provide the foundation to develop our own personal preferences later in life.


Dr. Gloria Adamek -"Brave New World: From In Vitro to In Silico"