This introductory course explores the intersection between gastronomy and neuroscience, focusing on the principles underlying food perception. Through hands-on experiments, we reveal the molecular and cellular mechanisms that shape our senses of taste and smell. For instance, we will examine the genetic basis that makes cilantro taste delightful to some and soapy to others. By understanding multi-sensory integration, we will discuss why it is a secret weapon for any skilled cook. During the whole class, theory is presented through interactive demonstrations, offering a practical approach to understanding flavor science. Additionally, the course covers basics of experimental design, data analysis and hypothesis testing.

No Prerequisites

2

Units

Pass no pass

Grading

1, 2, 3

Passtime

Inter collegiate athletes only

Level Limit

Letters and science

College
LOUIS M R
No info found
Winter 2026 . Louis M R
BSIF 1217
T
10:00 AM - 11:50 AM
INT 87AU Louis M R Winter 2026 Total: 32
INT 86VL
0 / 20 Enrolled
First Year Exploration Seminars
Kenneth (Ken) Hiltner 3.7
T
11:00 AM - 11:50 AM
INT 86BZ
1 / 20 Enrolled
Hidden Figures of Mathematics
Matt Porter 4.5
T
14:00 PM - 14:50 PM
INT 86HZ
1 / 20 Enrolled
First Year Discovery Seminar: Collectors and Collecting
William Davies King 3.3
W
17:00 PM - 17:50 PM
INT 86BD
2 / 11 Enrolled
Books Before Print: Medieval Manuscripts at UCSB
Heather Badamo 2.4
M
15:00 PM - 15:50 PM
INT 87AP
1 / 35 Enrolled
First Year Discovery & Linked Seminars
Kip Fulbeck 4.1 Paul Spickard 3.8
T
09:00 AM - 10:50 AM
INT 87AG
1 / 35 Enrolled
First Year Discovery & Linked Seminars
Jorge Luis Castillo 4.7 Eloi Grasset 4.7
W
13:00 PM - 14:50 PM