Science is a collaborative enterprise, and this document could not exist without the contributions of many people. First and foremost, I would like to thank my advisor, Tony Movshon. His insight and instruction were invaluable. Under his guidance, I became a scientist and an electrophysiologist. Thanks to all the lab members that aided in collecting this data (Wyeth Bair, James Cavanaugh, Adam Kohn, Najib Majaj, Nicole Rust, Simon Schultz). I'm grateful to Sue Fenstemaker for teaching me anatomy & histology, and to Mike Gorman & Kathy Kumar for their resourcefulness.
In particular, I wish to thank three people with whom I spent many hours collecting data and discussing science. Najib Majaj and I learned to record from MT together. I consider myself lucky to have him as a friend and colleague. Wyeth Bair has always been willing to listen and free with his advice and help. I value his opinions and friendship immensely. Adam Kohn helped me in my last set of experiments to be productive and do the most important thing of all - finish. I'm thankful for his determination, insight, and for being a friend with a pull-out sofa.
I appreciate the help and encouragement of many friends during my time as a graduate student. My brother, Tim Smith, was always an excellent sounding board and supporter. Michael Noonan, my first advisor, started me down this path - I cannot thank him enough. My family by birth (Mom, Dad, Carrie & Tim) and by marriage (Roman, Sharon, Eric & Robyn) has been a source of great strength and support.
Finally, I would like to thank Robyn A. Filipink for loving and believing in me. I could not have done it without her, and I owe her more than I can say.
Thanks to all.