Derek Garden

Dr. Derek Garden is a Lecturer at the University of Aberdeen's School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition. His research focuses on understanding neuronal dysfunction in autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) through integrative studies of synaptic integration, ion channel function, and circuit organization in brain regions like the entorhinal cortex and inferior olive.

• University of Aberdeen - Lecturer (2022-present)
• University of Bristol - PhD in Neuroscience
• University of Edinburgh - Postdoctoral Researcher
• University of Aberdeen - Biomedical Sciences undergraduate degree

Dr. Garden's research combines ex-vivo electrophysiology and advanced microscopy to investigate whether ASD-linked genes converge on common neuropathological pathways. His lab uses optogenetics and viral approaches to study:

• Monogenic ASD model convergence
• Critical period reversal of neuronal changes
• HCN1 channel function in cerebellar circuits
• Dendritic spine morphological changes
• Pharmacological intervention development

His published work reveals key insights into:

• Grid cell cluster organization
• Entorhinal cortex memory systems
• Synaptic integration mechanisms
• Autistic spectrum disorder pathologies
• Neurotransmission dynamics
• Cerebellar learning processes

Dr. Garden teaches courses in:

• Developmental Neuroscience (AN4301)
• Neuroscience and Neuropharmacology (BM3502)
• Neuroscience Research Topics (BM3804)