During the past decade, exciting developments have led to dramatic advancements in the biological sciences. Developed by the UCSD Division of Biological Sciences, the Grey Matters Public Lecture Series and its successor, the new Evolution Matters Lecture Series are seen as a way of helping the public to learn about the exciting life sciences research going on in the San Diego area. It is hoped that these lectures will pique the interest of parents, teachers and students and encourage young people to consider a science-related career.

Launched in 2004-05, Grey Matters: From Molecules to Mind focused on the cutting-edge research being conducted on the relationship between brain and mind. San Diego's leading neuroscientists explored many aspects of the human brain in a series of 15 lectures held over a period of three years.

For 2007-08, the Division of Biological Sciences is launching Evolution Matters: The Diversity of Development. In this series of 5 lectures, held over the course of the year, leading cell and developmental scientists will explore the evolution of plants, animals and humans and will discuss how their research into this field holds promise for finding solutions to key health and environmental issues facing us today.

The lectures for Grey Matters: From Molecules to Mind are broadcast on UCSD-TV’s local cable networks in San Diego, on UCTV’s nationwide cable stations, and are archived in streaming video on UCSD-TV’s website. To see a listing of those lectures or to view a lecture, visit the Lecture Archives. For 6 of the 15 neurobiology lectures, curricula modules are available to aid high school science teachers. Materials are also available in Spanish.

The Grey Matters Lecture Series is generously sponsored by:
Amylin Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and Kirin Pharma.