phd in neuroscience requirements

Neuroscience, PhD

School of medicine.

The Department of Neuroscience offers an interdisciplinary program designed to train doctoral students for independent research and teaching in neuroscience. It is the goal of the program to ensure that candidates for the Ph.D. and M.D./Ph.D. degrees obtain a background covering molecular, cellular, systems, and cognitive approaches to neuroscience, as well as receive training that brings them to the forefront of research in their particular area of interest. A series of core courses in neuroscience, along with advanced electives, seminar series, laboratory rotations, and original independent dissertation research, form the Neuroscience Graduate Training Program.

Students enter the program from different backgrounds and the laboratories in which they elect to work cover different disciplines; therefore, the program is tailored to fit the needs of individual students. The academic year at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine is divided into four quarters plus a summer semester. Courses are designed so that students have ample time to become involved in laboratory rotations. These laboratory rotations expose the student to a variety of current research techniques in neuroscience and provide an opportunity for the student to select a laboratory in which to conduct dissertation research. Scheduling of the three rotations is adjusted to make the most convenient schedule for each student. The rotations are usually completed by the end of the first full year in the program. Most students begin their thesis research at the beginning of their second year.

For more information, please visit The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience webpage: http://neuroscience.jhu.edu.

Financial Aid

The program provides tuition remission plus a stipend at or above the National Institutes of Health Predoctoral level for all students. All entering and first-year students are encouraged to apply for individual fellowships such as those sponsored by the National Science Foundation and the Howard Hughes Medical Institute.

Vivien Thomas PhD Scholars at JHU The  Vivien Thomas Scholars Initiative (VTSI)  is a new endowed fellowship program at Johns Hopkins for PhD students in STEM fields. It provides full tuition, stipend, and benefits while also providing targeted mentoring, networking, community, and professional development opportunities. Students who have attended a historically black college and university ( HBCU ) or other minority serving institution (MSI) for undergraduate study are eligible to apply. More information about the VTSI program is available at this link:  https://provost.jhu.edu/about/vivien-thomas-scholars-initiative/ . To be considered for the VTSI, all application and supplementary materials must be received by  December 1st .

Admission Requirements

We use a holistic approach to evaluating applicants and look forward to reading your application. We are most enthusiastic about applicants who have taken full advantage of the opportunities available at their undergraduate institution and through other summer or postbac experiences. Our class size is typically ~18 students per year.

Applicants are expected to have received a B.S. or B.A. prior to enrolling in the graduate program. Laboratory research experience prior to enrollment is also desirable. If you have research experience, please describe your research in your Statement of Interest and Career Objectives and indicate the number of months engaged in full-time and part-time research on your CV. Students who do well in our program typically have a strong academic foundation in areas of biological or physical sciences. Some of the courses that prepare students well include general biology, neuroscience, mathematics through calculus, general physics, general chemistry, organic chemistry, statistics, engineering, or computer science.

NOTE: The Neuroscience Program DOES NOT require GRE scores. 

Program Requirements

A year-long core course provides an integrated overview of molecular and cellular neuroscience, neuroanatomy and systems, and cognitive neuroscience. This course is aimed at providing Neuroscience graduate students with a foundation for posing meaningful questions in their area of interest.  During the first two years, students are required to take 6 graduate level core courses that provide rigorous training in principles of neuroscience research. In addition, students in the first year attend research symposia and complete lab rotations to introduce them to research. Students in the program are also required to participate in core program activities such as seminars, journal clubs, a quantitative analysis boot camp, career development courses and various program events. In addition, each student selects advanced electives offered by members of the Neuroscience Training Program or other departments at the Medical School.

Seminar Program

The Neuroscience Training Program conducts several seminar series to ensure that students are exposed to recent work by researchers from across the country and the world as well as by Hopkins faculty and fellows. Graduate trainees participate actively in these series throughout their training, including inviting and hosting three speakers each year. A weekly lecture is given by an outstanding researcher in some field of neuroscience. Seminars are selected so that an overall balance of subject matter is covered yearly. Students are given an opportunity to meet with each speaker for questions and discussion. Weekly lunchtime talks are presented on current literature by graduate students and postdoctoral fellows. Since an ability to communicate scientific work clearly is essential, graduate students receive close guidance in preparing and evaluating their journal club presentations. Once a month, the faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and students from one laboratory present and discuss the ongoing research in that laboratory. This provides an informal setting to discuss research being conducted in the laboratories of the Neuroscience Training Program and gives advanced graduate students and postdoctoral fellows a forum for presenting their work.

Requirements for the PhD Degree

A minimum residency of two academic years is required. During the course of graduate study, the student must successfully complete the required course requirements. An oral examination, conducted as prescribed by the Doctor of Philosophy Board, must be completed by the end of the second year. The student must then conduct original research and describe this research in a written thesis dissertation, which must be approved by the students Thesis Committee and the Doctor of Philosophy Board.

Training Facilities

The Training Program is centered in the Department of Neuroscience. The Training Program utilizes laboratory facilities located in the Department of Neuroscience plus several other basic and clinical departments closely associated with the Neuroscience Department. All of these laboratories are within a short distance of each other. Modern state of the art facilities for research in molecular biology, neurophysiology, pharmacology, biochemistry, cell biology, and morphology are available. The Mind/Brain Institute, located on the Homewood Campus of the University, is a group of laboratories devoted to the investigation of the neural mechanisms of higher mental function and particularly to the mechanisms of perception. All of the disciplines required to address these questions are represented in the Institute. These include neurophysiology, psychology, theoretical neurobiology, neuroanatomy, and cognitive science. All of the faculty in the Mind/Brain Institute are members of the Neuroscience Graduate Program.

Combined M.D./Ph.D. Program

A subset of the current predoctoral trainees in the Neuroscience Program are candidates for both Ph.D. and M.D. degrees. Applications for admission to the combined program are considered by the M.D./Ph.D. Committee of the School of Medicine. Application forms for the School of Medicine contain a section requesting information relevant to graduate study. Applicants interested in the combined M.D./Ph.D. program should complete this section also, and indicate specifically their interest in the “Neuroscience Training Program”. If application to the combined M.D./Ph.D. program proves unsuccessful and the applicant wishes to be considered for graduate studies, they must notify the Admissions Office of the Neuroscience Training Program by separate letter.

• Doing a PhD in Neuroscience

What Does a PhD in Neuroscience Focus On?

Neuroscience is the study of the structure and function of the nervous system. Neuroscientists investigate how the nervous system works and also study factors which can influence the behaviour of the nervous system. Such factors include neurological, psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders.

A PhD in neuroscience provides a wide range of advantages for people that are already studying in the field. It allows you to focus your postgraduate study, work with cutting edge technology, operate within leading research departments, and pursue specialist neuroscience jobs upon completion of your research project.

It should be noted that there are many research projects which are focused on a specialist area of neuroscience. Subsequently, other relevant doctoral degrees include (but are not limited to):

• PhD in cognitive neuroscience – A PhD in cognitive neuroscience offers a unique opportunity. It teaches you how the brain functions chemically and neurologically. A PhD allows you to investigate the role of neurotransmitters, chemical compounds that send messages across the synapses of the brain. These compounds control the behaviour of the neurons and influence all the other functions of the brain. When they are working the way they’re supposed to, the brain is behaving normally.
• PhD in behavioural neuroscience – Also known as biological psychology, biopsychology, or psychobiology. Behavioural neuroscience includes the study of psychological and neural mechanisms which affect behaviour (e.g. genetic or psychiatric) and neurological disease.
• PhD in computational neuroscience – Computational neuroscience is a growing field and uses computers to simulate the brain. Computational neuroscience candidates should be well versed in the emerging technologies of this field to contribute to the field’s progress, and may have a background in mathematics, physics, artificial intelligence, or computer science rather than biology. A PhD in computational neuroscience may see a PhD student develop personalized treatments for neurological and psychiatric disorders.
• PhD in clinical neuroscience – A postgraduate degree in clinical neuroscience focuses on the nervous system in relation to health and disease. A research project in this field may involve the development of novel techniques to diagnose and treat disorders of the human brain or central nervous system.

Other popular neuroscience research areas in include molecular neuroscience, neuroengineering, neuroimaging, neurolinguistics, neuroinformatics, and neurobiological study.

Entry Requirements for A PhD in Neuroscience

The typical neuroscience PhD research project requires applicants to have, or expect to obtain, an upper second class (2:1) bachelor’s degree in a related subject area. In some cases, a lower second class (2:2) bachelor’s degree is sufficient if the graduate has a master’s degree or other relevant experience. For international students, overseas equivalent qualifications are almost always accepted. Since the focus of a research project can vary greatly, relevant subjects can be decided on an individual basis.

Of course, PhD in neuroscience requirements vary across different institutions, and some projects may have subject specific entry requirements, e.g. a PhD in computational neuroscience may require the graduate student to have basic programming knowledge.

Universities typically expect international graduate students to provide evidence of their English Language ability in addition to their application. English language requirements are usually provided in the form of a IELTS, TOEFL (iBT) or CAE and CPE score. The exact score requirements may differ from university to university. Any English language qualifications will be clearly stated as part of the application process.

Browse PhDs in Neuroscience

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In the United Kingdom, a standard PhD research project in neuroscience requires 3 to 4 years of full-time study. A part-time neuroscience programme typically takes 6 to 7 years to complete. A neuroscience MPhil typically takes 1 to 2 years of full time study.

Students pursuing careers in this field may undertake additional training courses, aimed to develop independent research, communication and project management skills. Courses in these areas will give students an excellent foundation in which to begin their careers.

There are also laboratory rotations and specialised training modules for doctoral students within some PhD programmes, which may include developmental psychology, developmental biology, brain sciences, clinical neuroscience, cell biology, medicine, biomedical sciences, genetics, pharmacology, neurophysiology, cognitive science and neurology .

Costs and Funding

Annual tuition fees for PhDs in neuroscience are typically around £5,000 – £6,000 for UK students. Tuition fees for overseas students are typically around £25,000 – £35,000 per academic year. Tuition fees for part time programmes are typically scaled down according to the programme length (for both home and international tuition fees).

Some neuroscience PhD programmes also have additional costs to cover laboratory resources, travel, fieldwork, department administration and computational costs.

Many Universities offer postgraduate studentships or doctoral loan schemes which cover the tuition fees and in some cases the living costs for neuroscience PhD programmes.

PhD in Neuroscience Career Paths and Jobs

If you are wondering what to do with a PhD in neuroscience, there are many options you can explore. PhD in neuroscience jobs require specialist knowledge, and the typical neuroscientist salary in the UK reflects this. However, the average salary of a neuroscientist varies greatly due to the broad range of industries they can operate in. Generally a senior neuroscientist salary in the UK is around £50,000 per annum, however salaries can exceed £100,000 depending on the specific role. For example a cognitive neuroscientist salary in the UK may be greater than that of a cellular neuroscience researcher. It is also possible to use your PhD to find work internationally as some countries may provide employment opportunities which improve upon neuroscience salaries in the UK.

Many PhD in neuroscience careers are within the academic world, as often postgraduate students choose to become lecturers, professors and researchers. Here they can continue to lead research into their field of interest and can help shape future postgraduate study. Neuroscience professors and lecturers can expect a generous salary. Higher education institutions are not the only destination available for postdoctoral researchers. Government lead research councils such as the BBRSC are one of many employers which contribute to academia.

Other PhD students look for neuroscience jobs in the pharmaceutical industry, where they can use their specialist knowledge and skills in the lab to understand how developmental drugs affect the nervous system.

Another popular career destination is within public engagement. As a scientific communicator, you are responsible for educating the general public on neurological matters and often take governmental or advisory roles. There are many NHS jobs that facilitate these responsibilities.

Typically, a PhD in neuroscience salary is higher than that of a counterpart with an undergraduate degree only. This is because the specialist knowledge a PhD graduate student has allows them to innovate and lead. A PhD programme also usually involves some manner of project management which lends itself to management roles.

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Johns Hopkins School of Medicine

The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience

How to Apply

Admissions Requirements

2023 Hopkins Neuroscience Graduate Program Virtual Open House Registration

November 2nd, 2023, 4-6 PM Please register below to receive the zoom link: https://forms.office.com/r/UdvVL6YtKq

Thank you for your interest in applying to the Graduate Program in Neuroscience at Johns Hopkins. We use a holistic approach to evaluating applicants and look forward to reading your application. We are most enthusiastic about applicants who have taken full advantage of the opportunities available at their undergraduate institution and through other summer or postbac experiences. Our class size is typically 14-16 students per year.

Applicants are expected to have received a B.S. or B.A. prior to enrolling in the graduate program. Laboratory research experience prior to enrollment is also desirable. If you have research experience, please describe your research in your Statement of Interest and Career Objectives and indicate the number of months engaged in full-time and part-time research on your CV. Students who do well in our program typically have a strong academic foundation in areas of biological or physical sciences. Some of the courses that prepare students well include general biology, neuroscience, mathematics through calculus, general physics, general chemistry, organic chemistry, statistics, engineering, or computer science.

*NEW* Vivien Thomas PhD Scholars at JHU *NEW* The  Vivien Thomas Scholars Initiative (VTSI)  is a new endowed fellowship program at Johns Hopkins for PhD students in STEM fields. It provides full tuition, stipend, and benefits while also providing targeted mentoring, networking, community, and professional development opportunities. Students who have attended a historically black college and university ( HBCU ) or other minority serving institution (MSI) for undergraduate study are eligible to apply. More information about the VTSI program is available at this link:  https://provost.jhu.edu/about/vivien-thomas-scholars-initiative/ . To be considered for the VTSI, all application and supplementary materials must be received by  December 1, 2023 .

NOTE: The Neuroscience Program DOES NOT require GRE scores. 

Application materials requested in the online application include:

1. Transcripts. Applicants will need to list all colleges and universities they attended. A transcript will need to be uploaded from each school attended.  2. Curriculum Vitae (2 pages maximum). Please include the length of time for any full-time or part-time research experiences, any work experience, any abstracts, poster presentations or manuscripts authored in your CV. 3. Statement of Interest and Career Objectives (1 page maximum). The statement should include your motivations for pursuing a graduate degree in neuroscience at Johns Hopkins and should describe your scientific preparation (research experiences) and your long-term career goals. The statement should enable the admissions committee to determine that: 1) you are committed to pursuing a PhD in neuroscience and understand what is needed to succeed in graduate school, 2) you are intellectually engaged in science and your research, and 3) that the program in neuroscience at Johns Hopkins is a good fit for your research and career interests. Please name faculty whose work you find particularly interesting and with whom you would like to complete your thesis research. If you are interested in our joint program with the Janelia Research Campus, please indicate your interest by including one to four Janelia Group Leaders with whom you would like to complete your thesis research. For more information visit Janelia research . 4. Personal Statement (1 page maximum) . Our program is dedicated to creating an inclusive scientific environment for all scientists. Please describe how your personal background has prepared you to operate in a diverse environment, as well as your contributions to support and advance diversity, equity, and inclusion in science. In this section, you may include information such as the following: 1) Your efforts to address the barriers to equitable access in higher education faced by racial minorities, persons with disabilities, first generation and low-income students, LGBTQIA+ individuals, women, and other historically underrepresented individuals in higher education; 2) What you have learned from the barriers that others face; 3) If you are comfortable, the barriers you have overcome throughout your academic journey; and/or 4) Your involvement in organizations, research, or related work in supporting historically underserved populations and how that influenced your outlook on science, and/or any plans you might have to be involved in these efforts at Hopkins.  5. Letters of recommendation . Applicants must identify three people who are familiar with the applicant’s work and provide contact info for these references. The contact info will be entered into the application, and SOM will contact the references and ask them to submit letters of recommendation on behalf of the applicant. Letters should preferably come from faculty members or other professionals who are in a position to comment on the applicant’s aptitude for independent research and motivation for applying to the program. 6. International students whose native language is not English are required to complete the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS). When taking the exam, applicants should request official scores be reported to Institution Code 5316 (the Department Code is not necessary). To report official IELTS test scores, please include the Test Report Form (TRF) verification number on the application. Scores must be received before the application deadline. The TOEFL requirement is waived for students who have studied at a university within the U.S. or if you received your degree from an institution where English was the primary language of instruction. Students who studied in Puerto Rico do NOT have to submit a TOEFL score. All transcripts, letters of recommendation, and parts of the Admissions application must be in English. The approved transcript service for use by international students is WES .  7. Additional material. There is an option for uploading additional information including a description of any special considerations or additional documents that may support your application. 8. Application fee. Fee waivers are available for applicants who are U.S. Citizens or permanent residents of the U.S. and meet additional eligibility criteria as described in part below. These include: 1) military service, 2) low income status, and 3) participation in programs such as the Johns Hopkins Basic Science Institute Summer Internship Program including the NeuroSIP and Kavli SIP programs, Johns Hopkins Doctoral Diversity Program, Johns Hopkins Post-Baccalaureat Research Education Program (PREP), Johns Hopkins Neuroscience Scholars Program, Meyerhoff Scholarship Program, Minority Access Research Careers (MARC), Minority Access Research Support Program (RISE), attendance at ABRCMS or SACNAS, or attendance at a Neuroscience Outreach Program, among others. 

For a complete description of the fee waiver process, please see the Application Fees and Fee Waiver Instructions on the On-Campus Admission website.

All students accepted into the Neuroscience Training Program will receive a living allowance in the form of a stipend, full tuition waiver, and health and dental insurance. Funding for International students is more limited as only U.S. citizens, non-citizen nationals, and U.S. permanent residents are eligible for U.S. NIH funding. International students who apply for and receive outside support for their graduate education often exhibit the characteristics of successful applicants to our program. Although not required, it can be advantageous for international students to secure such funding.

Inquiries regarding the program and its admissions requirements:  [email protected]

The deadline for submission of completed applications including letters of recommendation is  December 1, 2023 . NOTE that this is an earlier deadline than for other graduate programs at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. 

The neuroscience program will host an interview event February 1-2, 2024 . Attending the interview event is by invitation only. 

All candidates will be notified of the Admissions Committee's decision by April 15, 2024 . All Johns Hopkins graduate students will undergo criminal background checks as is the policy of the School of Medicine.

We recognize that it can be financially burdensome to relocate to a new city to attend a PhD program.   Students who are admitted to PhD programs at JHU can apply to receive a $1500 need-based grant to offset the costs of relocating to JHU.  These grants provide funding to a portion of incoming students who, without this money, may otherwise not be able to afford to relocate to JHU for their PhD program.  This is not a merit-based grant . Applications will be evaluated solely based on financial need. For more information, visit the Office of the Provost webpage on   Need-based Relocation Grants for Incoming PhD Students

Welcome to Stanford Neurosciences

The Stanford Neurosciences Interdepartmental Program (IDP) offers interdisciplinary training leading to a Ph.D. in Neuroscience. The primary goal of the program is to train students to become leaders in neuroscience research, education and outreach. Graduates of the program will be innovators, investigators, and teachers whose programs and pursuits are founded on research. The signature feature of the Stanford Neurosciences IDP is the combination of outstanding faculty researchers and exceedingly bright, energetic students in a community that shares a firm and longstanding commitment to understanding the nervous system at all its levels of function.

Program News

Admissions Information Session

Join us virtually to learn more about the Stanford Neurosciences PhD program and the admissions process.

Monday, October 2, 2023

11:00 am - 12:00 pm PST

Registration:  https://stanford.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_pD6dbNZZTpyFF8mlFAxNYQ

Thank You, 2022-23 Student Reps and Committee Members!

2022-23 was a busy and engaging year in the program. Thank you to the Student Reps and Committee Members who led the way in bringing the community together!

Krishna Shenoy, engineer who reimagined how the brain makes the body move, dies at 54

Shenoy was a pioneer of neuroprosthetics, a field that paired chips implanted in the brain with algorithms able to decipher the chatter between neurons, allowing people with paralysis to control computers and mechanical limbs with their thoughts. Read more

Virtual Information Session - Monday, October 3, 2022

Virtual Information Session - Monday, October 4, 2021

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Tirin Moore wins 2021 Pradel Research Award

Dr. Shah elected as a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science

Dr. Jeffrey Goldberg elected to National Academy of Medicine

Incorporating Anti-Racism/Anti-Oppression Training for our incoming class

Thomas R. Clandinin elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences

Kevin Guttenplan recognized by Biosciences Excellence in Teaching Award

Karl Deisseroth wins 2020 Heineken Prize for Medicine 

Daniel Cardozo Pinto wins Gilliam Prize 

President Marc Tessier-Lavigne donates Gruber Neuroscience Prize money to support Neuro grads who are under-represented 

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Neuroscience, PhD

Neuroscience is a collaborative and interdisciplinary PhD program that provides training for careers in neuroscience research, teaching and more. Our training program is designed to provide a strong foundation of neuroscience knowledge while at the same time taking into account each student's strengths, needs, and career goals.

Virtually all aspects of traditional neuroscience are reflected in the research programs of the  186 faculty members who participate in NGG training, including computational, systems, cellular and molecular, developmental, behavioral, and cognitive neuroscience, along with the neurobiology of disease.  NGG faculty members represent 30 academic departments in the schools of Arts and Sciences, Engineering and Applied Science, Wharton Business, Veterinary Medicine, Dental Medicine, and Nursing, as well as the Perelman School of Medicine.  

For more information: https://www.med.upenn.edu/ngg/ngg-courses.html

View the University’s Academic Rules for PhD Programs .

Required Courses 

The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2023 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.

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Biomedical Graduate Studies

Neuroscience graduate group.

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If you missed our recent NGG Live! Admissions Information Session, you can find a link to the recording here . We hope this helps you in your application process. Please feel free to reach out to Mariel Featherstone ( [email protected] ) with any questions you may have.

The Neuroscience Graduate Group (NGG)  is the  University of Pennsylvania ’s interdisciplinary PhD program in neuroscience. The NGG is part of  Biomedical Graduate Studies  (BGS), an umbrella organization administered through the  Perelman School of Medicine  that includes the NGG and other biomedical-related graduate groups. All NGG students receive fellowships that cover tuition and fees, as well as a stipend. The stipend is $40,000 for the 2023-2024 academic year.

The NGG is committed to its mission of selecting and training top students from a diversity of educational and personal backgrounds. Because of the interdisciplinary nature of neuroscience, our admissions committee is not looking for a particular set of skills or educational path. Instead, we value highly motivated and talented students who have demonstrated an ability to thrive in a cutting-edge, research- oriented field. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals, particularly from members of ethnic, cultural, educational, and socioeconomic groups that are traditionally underrepresented in neuroscience.

Application Requirements

To apply to the NGG, you must use the BGS online application . See the BGS application  FAQ  for more details. We require:

• TOEFL or IELTS (required only for applicants for whom English is not a native language
• GPA (the average GPA of admitted applicants from the last three years is 3.71)
• A statement of purpose (personal statement) discussing your academic and career objectives
• A research statement describing your research experience
• BGS does not require or accept GRE scores.
• International and domestic applications are due  December 1, 2023.
• Applicants residing in the United States who are selected for interviews will be invited to attend one of two interview sessions to be held in January and February. We will arrange and cover the cost of travel, hotel, and meals during your stay. International applicants who are selected for an interview but who are not currently residing in the United States will be interviewed by Skype around the same time.
• Students who are invited for an interview will be notified of an Admissions decision generally within two weeks of the interview date

For additional information or questions about the application process, please contact the NGG Graduate Coordinator .

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Section 6: Requirements for the PhD in Neuroscience

6.1 objectives.

The Doctor of Philosophy degree in Neuroscience shall reflect a mastery of such areas as cellular, molecular and developmental neurobiology, neuropharmacology, neurophysiology, neuroanatomy, behavioral neuroscience, neuro-oncology, neuroimmunology, and neurotrauma.  During the course of study, the student has the option of deciding whether to specialize in one or more of the above areas.  All students are strongly encouraged to complete the doctoral degree within a five (5) year time period.

6.2 RESIDENCE AND CREDIT HOUR REQUIREMENTS

All doctoral students must fulfill the Graduate School’s residence and credit hour requirements.

The Doctor of Philosophy degree requires the equivalent of at least 3 academic years of work beyond the baccalaureate degree with a minimum of 80 hours of graduate credit.  If a student has earned a master’s degree in a relevant area, then a minimum of 50 graduate credit hours beyond the master’s degree is required.   If the master’s degree was earned at another university, it must be transferred to this university.

Residence at the University is required to afford the student an opportunity to engage in intensive, concentrated study over an extended period of time in association with faculty members and other students in an atmosphere conducive to a high level of intellectual and scholarly activity.  All domestic students are required to establish Ohio residency by the end of autumn semester in their second academic year.

The following requirements must be fulfilled after the master’s degree has been earned or after the first 30 hours of graduate credit have been completed:

• a minimum of 24 graduate credit hours required for the PhD must be completed at this University
• a minimum of two consecutive pre-candidacy semesters or one semester and a summer session with a full-time enrollment must be completed while in residence at this University
• a minimum of 6 graduate credit hours over a period of at least two semesters or one semester and a summer session must be completed after admission to candidacy

6.3 COURSE REQUIREMENTS

It is required that all NGP students, with the exception of those in the MD/PhD track, take the introductory core course sequence. These courses are normally scheduled in the first year and must be completed by the end of the second year. 

Fall Semester

• NEUROSC 7001: Foundations of Neuroscience 1 (4 credit hours)
• NEUROSC 7100: Current Topics in Neuroscience (1 credit hour) – paper discussion course to accompany NEUROSC 7001
• NEUROGS 7887: Seminar Topics in Neuroscience (1 credit hour)

Spring Semester

• NEUROSC 7002: Foundations of Neuroscience II (4 credit hours)
• NEUROSC 7200.01: Neuroscience Laboratory (1 credit hour) – 1st half of semester

Summer Semester

• BME 894 or BIOPHRM 5510: Responsible Conduct in Neuroscience Research

All Neuroscience Graduate Students must also complete one related elective.   The student should consult her/his advisor for recommended additional coursework in accordance with the student’s chosen course of study.

A list of “Recommended Electives” includes, but is not limited to: 

• MOLGEN 5701: DNA Transactions and Gene Regulation
• NEUROSC 5644: Behavioral Endocrinology
• NEUROSC 5790H: Developmental Neurobiology
• NEUROSC 7500: Neuroimmunology
• NGSY 8250: Biology of the Tumor Microenvironment

Other electives may be taken, at the discretion of the student and his/her advisor.

Students are also required to complete one course in statistics. Recommended statistics courses include:

• STAT 5301: Intermediate Data Analysis I
• PSYCH 6810: Statistical Methods in Psychology I 

After satisfactorily completing the Candidacy Examination, it is normally expected that a student will not enroll in any course other than NEUROGS 7887 and the 8999 course of the advisor’s home department.

Students who transfer into the Program from other graduate programs, whether at OSU or another institution, must also meet the core course requirement.  They may petition to the NGP Committee to accept courses taken in their former Program.  The NGP Committee will determine if the courses taken are equivalent to the NGP core courses and will determine if the transfer student may be exempted from taking one or more core courses.

In certain instances, with permission of the NGP Committee and the student’s advisor, students may be exempted from taking a core course if adequate proficiency or equivalency can be demonstrated.  The NGP Committee may approve an alternative course of study.

6.4 LAB ROTATIONS AND THESIS RESEARCH

Students are engaged in research during every semester and summer session of their training.  Students doing laboratory rotations should register for the 6193 course of the rotation mentor’s home department, e.g. NEUROSC 6193 (Individual Studies in Neuroscience) for mentors who are in the Department of Neuroscience.  Once students have successfully passed their candidacy examination, they should register for the 8999 course of the advisor’s home department, e.g. NEUROSC 8999 (Research in Neuroscience) for advisors who are in the Department of Neuroscience.

The following policy is predicated on the principle that students should have exposure to multiple research experiences prior to selecting a dissertation laboratory:

• Three rotations are the norm and are strongly encouraged.
• Rotations will be in 7 week modules; 2 in autumn semester, 2 in spring semester and all first-year students must be performing research in labs during all 4 modules.  Generally students will decide on a lab in consultation with the relevant mentor after the third rotation.
• If a student has not identified/chosen a lab after three rotations he/she may continue for a final 7 wk session in one of the three rotation labs (in consultation/agreement with the relevant mentor) or do a 4th rotation.
• If a student has identified/chosen a lab after 2 or 3 rotations in consultation with the relevant mentor he/she should continue in that lab in the ensuing rotation modules.
• Students are expected to have chosen a lab by the beginning of summer session at the end of year one.

Exceptions: As with all guidelines some exceptions may be made (e.g. if a student transfers midyear from another program/institution with a newly arriving faculty, or if a new student is financially supported from the outset by the advisor and not by the program). Any such exceptions would require a petition with the graduate studies committee.

6.5 RESEARCH REQUIREMENT

Communication of research results is critically important in any scientific research endeavor. Published research papers are the primary form of written communication, and the most important measure of research productivity. The second most important method of research communication is oral presentation of data at research meetings. The dissertation document should represent an original scholarly body of work that contributes to the field. This document must be of a caliber similar to that expected of an article submitted to a peer-reviewed journal. Indeed, the dissertation-associated work should be published in peer-reviewed journals. 

The following are the research expectations of NGP students:

• At least one published or in press primary research paper, with first-authorship, is required; this minimal requirement, however, is generally considered below the expectations of the program, unless the papers are of extraordinary content and impact 
• At least one non-OSU conference research presentation (oral or poster), with first-authorship, is required; this minimal requirement, however, is generally considered below the expectations of the program 

6.6 ONE-SEMESTER TEACHING REQUIREMENT

The NGP considers that teaching is an important part of a student’s professional development.  To this end, all students, including those appointed as Graduate Research Associates, are required to teach one semester during their training.  Students may obtain a list of all teaching opportunities by contacting the Program Administrator.  The student should normally have completed this requirement by the end of the second academic year.

6.7 NEUROSCIENCE SEMINAR SERIES ATTENDANCE

All students must attend all invited speaker seminars in the Neuroscience Seminar Series and Frontiers in Neuroscience series in all years of tenure in the NGP (see section 15.2); limited exceptions are allowed on a case-by-case basis, and must be pre-approved. Exceptions include research-related travel and vacations, illness, or research-related scheduling conflicts that cannot be avoided.

6.8 OUTREACH/SERVICE

As part of their professional development NGP students are expected to participate in service to the program and to engage in research education in the community. Service may include participation on the student NS Seminar Committee, participation in luncheons with invited seminar speakers, annual recruitment events, and other activities. Such service is ongoing in every year. Community research education includes mandatory participation in the annual Brain Awareness Week event in March at COSI. Each student must participate in at least one morning or afternoon session, twice during their tenure in the program (two different years). Other outreach activities could include participation in the student-led outreach group, NEURO. 

6.9 INSTRUCTION IN RESPONSIBLE CONDUCT IN RESEARCH

All students must engage in a nine-session course in Responsible Conduct in Neuroscience Research (BME 894 or BIOPHRM 5510). The courses are primarily discussion based and cover i) Ethics and the Practice of Science, ii) Mentor and Trainee Relationships and Collaborations, iii and iv) Data Acquisition, Analysis, Presentation, Sharing and Management, v) Research Publication, Conflict of Interest, and Confidentiality, vi) Grant Application and Institutional Responsibility, vii) Patents, Intellectual Property and Inventions, viii) Animal Experimentation, and ix) Research with Human Subjects.

6.10 CANDIDACY AND FINAL DOCTORAL EXAMINATIONS

All students are required to satisfactorily complete the Candidacy Examination in order to proceed with their thesis research.  To graduate from the Program, all students must successfully complete the Final Doctoral Examination.  These examinations are described in sections 10 and 11, respectively.

6.11 DEACTIVATION

Enrollment eligibility for a pre-candidacy doctoral student who has not registered in the Graduate School within the preceding two full calendar years will be automatically deactivated.  Eligibility for doctoral students who have passed the candidacy examination is automatically deactivated at the end of a five-year candidacy period if they have not graduated by then.  To reenroll, the student must petition the NGP Committee for reactivation and  there is no assurance of readmission.

Berkeley Neuroscience

Images left to right:  Christine Liu (PhD 2021) in the lab,   Christiane Voufo (PhD 2022) as the graduate student speaker at the Spring 2023 commencement ceremony, current Neuroscience PhD students in Tahoe during the 2023 UC Berkeley Neuroscience Research Conference, and Karina Bistrong (current Neuroscience PhD student) with poster presentation. Images provided by Christine Liu, GradImages, Frédéric Theunissen, and the Feller lab, respectively.

Prospective Students

Current students, program activities, gsi hiring information, student services & advising.

The Neuroscience Department will offer PhD training through the Neuroscience PhD Program , which will be run jointly by the department and the Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute (HWNI) .  This program has existed since 2000, run by HWNI, and has graduated > 150 students with a PhD in Neuroscience.  When the department launches, the existing HWNI Neuroscience PhD Program will be adopted and jointly administered by the department and HWNI. This will be a seamless transition for current students, who will not experience any changes to program curriculum or requirements. Over the next few years, we plan to make updates to the course of study, so that the program provides the best possible training, and matches the scope of both the Neuroscience Department and HWNI.  Students who enter the program will be able to choose thesis study with Neuroscience Department faculty members or with training faculty within the broader set of HWNI faculty.  Please see the full list of eligible faculty here .

PhD Program

The Neuroscience PhD Program at UC Berkeley offers intensive training in neuroscience research through a combination of coursework, research training, mentoring, and professional development. More than 60  program faculty (link is external)  from the Neuroscience Department and other allied departments provide broad expertise from molecular and cellular neuroscience to systems and computational neuroscience, to human cognitive neuroscience.

A unique feature of the neuroscience training at Berkeley is the highly multidisciplinary research environment. For instance, neuroscientists work side-by-side in the lab with engineers and roboticists to study motor control, with bioengineers to grow stem cells for regenerative medicine and tissue engineering, and with chemists to develop new reagents for optical monitoring and control of neural activity. Neuroscience PhD Program students are trained at these intersections between fields and help drive scientific and technological advances.

The Neuroscience PhD Program trains a select group of students (about 10-12 entering students per year) in an intellectually stimulating and supportive environment. Since its official launch in 2000, the program has trained more than 150 students. Our applicants have outstanding undergraduate records in both research and scholarship from diverse academic disciplines, including biology, chemistry, psychology, physics, engineering, and computer science. We carefully select students with the expectation that, given strong graduate training, they will develop into tomorrow’s leaders in the field of neuroscience. We welcome you to apply to our program.

Please see the Neuroscience Department page:  Diversity, Equity & Inclusion .

Annual Message from Our PhD Program Director

"I am delighted to be the new director of our graduate program. I have inherited a program that I am proud to tell everyone is the best run graduate program on campus..."  Read More

Neuroscience PhD Program

UC Berkeley | 444 Li Ka Shing, MC#3370 | Berkeley, CA 94720-3370 | [email protected]

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PhD in Neuroscience

In terms of basic sciences, neuroscience is one of the last remaining major frontiers in science.

Why Study Neuroscience?

How and why we reason, recall, and behave in unique ways during health and diseases are complex questions waiting to be answered by you, a new graduate student in our IGPBS Neuroscience graduate program. At UNMC, we use cutting edge and state-of-the-art imaging, electrophysiology, molecular biology, behavioral sciences, animal models, novel chemical entities and big data computational analyses to unravel these fascinating questions in clinical and basic science setting.

Why Study Neuroscience at UNMC?

The Neuroscience program is like a new kid on the block: energetic, dynamic and with a lot of room for growth. At UNMC, we work diligently to unravel how the brain functions in health and diseases. In Omaha, which is frequently listed in the top 10 of mid-size US cities for having a high quality of life, affordable housing, a strong economy, and a vibrant music & art scene for the 18-34 age group, you can conduct research in many areas of clinical and basic sciences using an array of cutting-edge tools.

Our researchers are well-equipped by our connections to Nebraska Medicine, Children’s Hospital and Boy’s Town Research Hospital. Systems are also in place to support student training with a group of dedicated faculty with independent funding and numerous UNMC Core Facilities. Our faculty are spread across numerous departments across campus, providing a rich environment for collaborative research. Our graduate student body is diverse, and our graduates continue to have successful careers in academia, industrial or regulatory settings.

Program Snapshot

Program highlights.

• Neuroscience graduate students complete three laboratory rotations prior to joining a lab for PhD dissertation.
• We have the country’s first NIH-funded training grant on "Neuroimmunology of Disease Training Program" (NIH T32 NS105594) that provides research training at the intersection of immunology and neuroscience for students. Accepted graduate students can experience the clinical manifestations of neurological diseases and conduct a short research project outside the primary lab to broaden research horizons.
• Students are given the opportunity to do an internship at BigPharma if identified and selected.
• Students can pursue a Certificate in Business Management at minimal cost if interested in entering the corporate world.

Careers & Outcomes

After completing their PhD, many students go into post-doctoral research position at research institutions. Some also go into residency programs, Big Pharma/Biotech, Scientific Writing, Regulatory Affairs, etc. Four representative examples are listed below:

• Rachel Spooner (PhD '21) : Post doctoral Fellow- Heine University, Dusseldorf, Germany.
• Alex Wiesman (PhD '20) : Research, and Associate Editor, Frontiers in Neurology, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University Health Center, Canada
• Justin Grassmeyer (PhD '19) : Resident, Oregon Health & Science University, Casey Eye Center, Oregon, USA
• Jeffrey Moffat (PhD '18) : Neuroscientist, University of California, San Francisco, USA

Special Features of the Program

• We foster a collegial and productive environment to develop the next generation of researchers
• Neuroscience comprises of faculty from several basic and clinical departments, including Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Infectious Diseases, Department of Cellular and Integrated Physiology, Department of Neurological Sciences, Department of Neurosurgery, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences and Munroe Meyer Institute (childhood diseases).
• Neuroscience graduate students meet monthly over lunch to discuss success strategies. Every student is important to us.
• We host a Summer Research Symposium with a "fun and games" vibe that students help create and manage.

Related Programs

Students interested in this program may also wish to explore:

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PhDs in Neuroscience and Computational Neuroscience

For contact information, please visit the Graduate Program for Neuroscience website .

Program Description

The Graduate Program for Neuroscience (GPN) is a University-wide PhD degree-granting training program in neuroscience that unites the graduate training faculty and students present on our two campuses, the Charles River Campus (CRC) and the Medical Campus (MED). We are a diverse community of faculty, students, and staff who come from multiple departments, schools and colleges, and campuses of the University. Our individual disciplinary interests combine to form a comprehensive research and educational environment that rejects all forms of racism and thrives on our shared excitement for neuroscience.

Faculty administration of the program is delivered by the Program Director in association with the GPN Steering Committee, Graduate Education Committee, and the Computational Neuroscience Curriculum Committee. The research of GPN training faculty covers virtually all areas of neuroscience, from molecular and cellular to systems and computational.

In addition to the PhD in Neuroscience, there is a specialized PhD in Computational Neuroscience for students interested in a more rigorous curriculum in the area. Students pursuing the PhD in Computational Neuroscience get a strong primary training in neuroscience that is shared with their fellow students pursuing the PhD in Neuroscience through the “Core” Curriculum.

An essential feature of the GPN training mission for all students (PhD in Neuroscience and PhD in Computational Neuroscience) is a set of core courses that are aimed at developing a community of thinkers, who move through their training together, building relationships that cross interdepartmental and intercampus barriers, and foster cross-disciplinary collaborations. Most students complete their PhD in roughly 5.8 years.

As members of the unified program, the Neuroscience faculty serve as thesis research mentors and/or knowledge facilitators and work together to help students close any gaps between their knowledge base of individual disciplines as well as their understanding of computational and experimental models. Every effort is expended to provide an individually tailored mentorship and educational program for each student that builds upon their unique strengths and interests, while also recognizing areas that need enrichment through faculty guidance and curriculum choice.

There are four aspects of modern neuroscience that our program addresses:

• First , it is becoming increasingly clear that important breakthroughs in the field require ideas, approaches, and techniques originating from many disciplines. The GPN curriculum provides both a broad cross-disciplinary core education including molecular, cellular, and systems; cognitive and behavioral; computational; and clinical neuroscience; and the flexibility to take neuroscience-related coursework in any of the departments and programs of the University to build depth of specialization along different perspectives in a particular area of neuroscience.
• Second, a critical aspect of GPN is the formation of a unified group of graduate students from across BU, including the Colleges of Arts & Sciences, Engineering, Health & Rehabilitation Sciences: Sargent College, and BU’s medical school. For the first year of training in GPN, these students take the “core” curriculum courses together, have the opportunity to be involved in common projects, and participate as a community in all Boston University neuroscience activities.
• Third , critical to the interdisciplinary focus of the training, is the participation of traditional science departments, which provide a large number of the elective courses and specialized training opportunities to complement the GPN curriculum. Several departments at the Medical Campus (Anatomy & Neurobiology and Pharmacology, Physiology & Biophysics) also offer a joint degree in neuroscience that is coordinated with GPN to further enhance the interdisciplinary nature of the student community.
• Fourth , a strong emphasis is placed on building relationships among students and faculty across multiple disciplines to complement the traditional mentorship by the thesis advisor and to provide entry into the neuroscience research/student community of multiple BU schools with alternative scientific perspectives.

The Diverse Student Body

Because students who enter GPN come from diverse backgrounds—including psychology, engineering, biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics—upon their mutual acceptance into the program, they will be given the opportunity to fill any gaps in their training that might interfere with their ability to do their best in the upcoming core curriculum of their first and second years. This could mean enrolling in a particular summer course(s); taking a summer hands-on laboratory methods section (Tools of the Trade) organized by GPN faculty to introduce basic techniques in molecular or behavioral research; or even structured readings/discussions over the summer with a faculty member that are designed to stimulate a deeper understanding of a core discipline such as biology, biochemistry, or mathematics that might not have been fully emphasized in undergraduate coursework.

It is our belief that with a coherent educational program that embraces multiple complementary attitudes and approaches to scientific inquiry—breadth vs. depth, multidisciplinary vs. traditional discipline, basic vs. clinical science, and experimental approaches vs. theoretical (computational)—there is the greatest opportunity to create a young generation of researchers with sufficient expertise and flexibility to be able to come together and address some of the “big problems” in neuroscience.

Learning Outcomes

By taking a common set of core courses, students will develop an advanced understanding in the diverse field of neuroscience from molecular to cellular and systems to human cognition. The Computational Neuroscience curriculum supplements core neuroscience training with advanced training in a wide array of computational methods for (i) studying the nervous system; (ii) developing neuroscience-related technologies; (iii) and the critical thinking to use this knowledge to conduct rigorous and reproducible scientific discoveries. Students will also develop an appreciation for the human condition by participating in clinical rotations held at the West Roxbury VA Hospital and BMC where they have the opportunity to follow cases in neurology, neurosurgery, and psychiatry.

Experimental Proficiency

Students will develop scientific proficiencies that will permit them to undertake graduate-level research in their area of interest. Students are required to participate in laboratory rotations in their first year to aid in the development of important scientific skills in lab bench or computational research as well as identifying a laboratory for their future thesis research. During their second year, students enroll in electives that enhance their research interests. All GPN students must take the mandated workshop requirement in Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) that is offered across the University with BU faculty participation.

Analytical Skill Development

Students will develop quantitative skills that permit the analysis of data in their field of research. First-year students begin their analytical skill development with a seven-week intensive introductory course in Computational Neuroscience using Python that emphasizes data analysis and mathematical modeling for students regardless of where they are in their use of quantitative and programming skills. Subsequently, students further develop these skills by enrollment in a course in probability and statistics that is relevant to their research. Mentors work with students to help them to develop the quantitative and analytical skills particular to their research areas.

Communication

Students will be able to communicate their research and that of the work of others orally and in written formats. This proficiency is developed via their curriculum in Frontiers in Neuroscience and their written qualifying exam that is in the form of an NRSA fellowship application. After students pass their qualifying exam, they are required to present seminars to the larger graduate neuroscience community annually. Roughly one year prior to their defense, students present a longer progress report seminar to the full neuroscience community in a formal setting. Students regularly present posters and papers for campus events as well as at national conferences such as SfN.

As the Graduate Program for Neuroscience is a cross-University program, significant emphasis is placed on building relationships that cross inter-departmental and inter-campus barriers and foster cross-disciplinary collaborations. Students are expected to show good citizenship by volunteering in ways that support the local community through outreach activities such as bringing science activities to the local public schools, mentoring activities of fellow students, and cultural enrichment for our own community through events like the Neural Arts Forum. We also encourage participation in our student groups (NGSO and CNSO) that help to sustain the student community via social and educational interactions.

Curriculum Overview

Most students take 28 credits of required study that includes laboratory rotations and clinical rounds, as described below, and fulfill the 64-credit post-bachelor’s, or the 32-credit post-master’s, requirement for the PhD by participating in the student seminar series, attending GPN-sponsored activities such as the distinguished lecture series and the neuroscience retreat, and from directed study with their thesis research mentor and GPN faculty facilitators.

In the first year, students take 18 credits of core coursework (courses taken together as an entering class) that cover the diverse field of neuroscience, from molecular to cellular and systems to human cognition (12 credits), an introductory course in computational modeling that is tuned to the specific background of individual students (2 credits), and Frontiers in Neuroscience (4 credits) where they share lunch every week with a member of the broad group of faculty that make up the neuroscience community here at BU; develop important oral presentation skills; and learn to critically evaluate the literature in their field of interest as well as in areas outside of their earlier academic and research training. Here they also develop important writing skills through faculty and peer mentoring and acquire the basic skills to write a compelling Specific Aims section of an individual training grant application.

During the first year, students also receive required credit (2–4 credits) for participating in laboratory rotations that help them develop important skills in lab bench research as well as identify a laboratory for future thesis research.

Second Year

During their second year, students choose elective curriculum (12 credits) that enhances their research interests (some of our elective curriculum is organized into discipline-specific training opportunities that enable our students to receive T32 support, see below), develop an appreciation for the human condition by participating in a unique opportunity to observe clinical cases in neurology, neurosurgery, and psychiatry (1–2 credits), and take an elective in probability and statistics that is relevant to their research. Together throughout their time in GPN they also take the mandated workshop requirement in Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) that is offered across the University with BU faculty participation and have access to multiple GMS and faculty-organized workshops in grant writing and professional development. GMS is especially proud of its accomplishments in being able to deliver an exceptional professional development curriculum, having received the BEST award from NIH in 2018.

Computational Neuroscience

For those students wanting to specialize in computational neuroscience , there is additional required study that leads to the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Computational Neuroscience. Computational neuroscience students take their first-year “core” classes with all GPN students and a minimum of two (rather than three) laboratory rotations, with at least one that gives them the experience of experimental research. Additional rotations can be arranged if a student wants to do more and this is encouraged by GPN leadership.

Additional Curriculum

All students have the option of taking additional academic coursework rather than using directed study credits with the thesis mentor to make up the 64-credit requirement for the degree, especially as needed based upon their research interests or to supplement a lack of certain background during undergraduate study.

The goal for the majority of students will be to complete core requirements and to choose the laboratory for their thesis research by the end of the first year. Course requirements for elective study will most likely be completed by the end of the second year. All efforts will be made to tailor the training program to the individual goals of the student, taking into account their previous training experiences either at the undergraduate or master’s level. GPN committees will continually evaluate, expand, and redesign core coursework and choices of advanced electives in order to offer students the best curriculum available across the University.

Core Courses

An essential feature of the program is a set of “core” courses: these are taken by all students in GPN (Neuroscience & Computational Neuroscience) during their first year and are aimed at developing a community of thinkers who move through the training program together, building relationships that cross departmental and campus barriers, and foster cross-disciplinary collaborations.

Students complete 12 credits of “core” neuroscience coursework that provides a strong foundation in this diverse field of graduate study. The fall semester course Systems Neuroscience I (4 credits) is a team-taught lecture/discussion course that meets on alternate days on the Charles River Campus and the Medical Campus. The curriculum engages students to develop basic skills in critical thinking as well as basic principles of brain function, neuroanatomy, and the cellular and molecular neurobiology that will be essential for them as they move into the spring semester integrated curriculum (8 credits) that critically evaluates the use of novel technologies, model vertebrate/invertebrate systems, computational models, and studies with human subjects, with the goal of providing the most up-to-date thinking that can elaborate on the function and dysfunction of the human brain.

• GMS NE 700 Principles of Neuroscience I: From Molecules to Systems (4 cr)
• GRS NE 741 Neural Systems I: Functional Circuit Analysis (4 cr)
• GRS NE 742 Neural Systems II: Cognition and Behavior (4 cr)

Additional “core” neuroscience requirements include: a seven-week intensive introductory course in data analysis and mathematical models for students regardless of where they are in their use of quantitative and modeling skills. This introductory course combines lectures and hands-on computer time to treat real laboratory data like case studies and motivates students to use the mathematical approach as a means to better understand their own research via statistical data analysis and modeling.

• GRS MA 665 An Introduction to Mathematical Models and Data Analysis in Neuroscience (2 cr)

Students pursuing the PhD in Computational Neuroscience (or who have taken an undergraduate course in the area) can substitute a more advanced elective for this requirement. Likewise, students who have taken the required course and would like more exposure to the area can continue on in the class to take the next module that is offered sequentially (4 credits instead of 2 credits).

Additional Required Curriculum

In addition to the core curriculum, students take the following seminar coursework during their first year and enroll in laboratory rotations:

• GRS NE 500/501 Frontiers in Neuroscience (4 cr)

During the first semester, students attend a unique weekly journal club and professional development class that is run by the GPN Director over lunch on Fridays (fall and spring of Year 1). In the fall semester, students are assigned key papers from a BU faculty member’s laboratory and supporting manuscripts in the field. The particular faculty member, whose research is being reviewed, cohosts the class with the Director. During the two-hour session, student presenters review and critique experimental findings and approaches, building their skills in critical thinking and developing the basic tools for successful oral presentations. They also get to share their scientific ideas and interests with the leaders of neuroscience at Boston University, an activity that enriches our neuroscience community. Research from monthly GPN distinguished lecturers from across the world are integrated into the training experience to provide a balanced exposure for students to all areas of neuroscience and to give them firsthand interactions with exceptional individuals who are defining the field of the future.

In the spring semester, students learn to write a compelling Specific Aims and Approach section for an individual training grant application and develop the peer group skills to help each other grow professionally in both oral and writing exercises. These new skills they will bring to their NRSA and/or NSF application for future research funding in Year 2 and for their written qualifying exam. The course stresses the evolution of critical thinking and the use of constructive criticism to improve the training of their fellow graduate students.

Laboratory Rotations

• GMS NE 800/801 Laboratory Rotations (2–4 cr)

Providing an enriching set of laboratory research experiences directed by GPN faculty for students during their first year is a central feature of the neuroscience training program at Boston University. The multitude of highly talented mentors who have funded research projects provides students with a large number of potential laboratories from which to choose the thesis research mentor who will complement their current interests and, through laboratory rotations, expand their horizons into different areas of investigation that they may grow toward in the future. The majority of students pursuing the PhD in Neuroscience take a minimum of three rotations, with at least one rotation in an area outside of their initial research interests; students pursuing the PhD in Computational Neuroscience take a minimum of two rotations, with at least one in an experimental laboratory. Students can also request additional rotations should they not find a mentor, or if they would like more exposure to other methodologies used in neuroscience.

Clinical Rounds (2 credits)

During their second year, all students participate in a unique opportunity to interact with human patients suffering from neuropsychiatric disorders. These experiences take place at the Boston VA supervised by a clinician scientist who is a member of the GPN training faculty.

Hands-On Laboratory Boot Camp/Neuroscience Retreat

Before starting in the training program, the Graduate Education Committee (GEC) reviews the research experiences of each student to determine whether they have had basic training in molecular, behavioral, and/or cognitive research. Based upon their history of undergraduate or post-baccalaureate experiences, they will be advised to take a series of group method sessions called Tools of the Trade, run by faculty in the summer, that provides students with the essential hands-on experience necessary to make their laboratory rotations in the fall meaningful for their graduate-level training. In Tools of the Trade, students learn some of the basic techniques necessary for conducting laboratory research in the field of neuroscience, independent of their current research interests. Students who have already had experience in both molecular and cognitive research can petition to the GEC to waive the requirement and students who are unable to attend during the summer can take the sessions as part of their Laboratory Research Experience class during the fall semester, before beginning laboratory rotations.

For instance, group activities may be organized around detection of an important neuronal RNA via real-time PCR, the identification of a single nucleotide polymorphism in a DNA sample from a patient with a neurodegenerative disease, identification of protein in brain slices using immunohistochemistry and fluorescence microscopy, electrophysiological measurements or calcium imaging of living neurons, interaction of transcription factors with DNA regulatory elements that control expression of neural-specific genes, neuroimaging of the brain to detect the activation of particular brain structures, and running of a behavioral task with animals to address questions of learning and memory. Projects vary with the expertise and interests of the participating GPN faculty.

The entering class in GPN is also invited to the annual GPN Neuroscience Retreat. Every effort is made to schedule the retreat right after the Tools of the Trade so that students are well integrated in our community before arriving in the fall for formal admittance.

Elective Study

The rest of the didactic credits toward the PhD come from elective study (12-credit minimum) that is organized for simplicity into three distinct pathways of emphasis (Molecular & Cellular, Systems, and Computational) to help students choose a relevant curriculum for their interests and choose electives within any area of neuroscience. Those students enrolled in the computational neuroscience training specialization should reference the requirements specific to that curriculum as it applies to required and elective choices. Taking advantage of the translational research and history of clinical training at the MED campus, and rehabilitative Health Sciences at the CRC, students are required to take elective coursework (minimum of 2 credits) and participate in clinical rounds (see above) that provide an exposure to patients and topics relevant to human disease (such as Autism, Alzheimer’s, Drug Abuse, Epilepsy, Parkinson’s, Schizophrenia, and Disorders of Vision, Hearing & Speech). They also take a required elective in probability and statistics that is appropriate to their area of thesis research upon the recommendation of their thesis mentor.

Program Requirements for Continued Student Registration

All students must maintain full-time enrollment each semester. Additional program credits come from Directed Study (GRS NE 901/902) during thesis research with the mentor, and attendance is required at neuroscience ethics and responsible conduct of research (RCR) workshops, at the majority of distinguished lectures, faculty seminars, and program events of the GPN (including student recruitment, the annual Neuroscience Retreat, GPN social gatherings such as the Fall Welcome Reception, the Laboratory Matching Ceremony, and the Holiday Party), and most importantly at GPN graduate student seminars. All students are required to give at least one short presentation annually at the Neuroscience Graduate Student Seminar Series and to fulfill the calendar deadlines of their graduate milestones. Please note that at least one published first author manuscript is required for moving toward the thesis defense.

As members of GPN, students will acquire their more advanced training from coursework offered in departments around the University in order to fulfill the credit requirements for the PhD degree. The following is a list of potential electives organized by topic area as a guide to help students choose their curriculum.

* Medical Campus

Relevant to Molecular, Cellular & Systems (see also Computational)

• CAS BI 520 Sensory Neurobiology (4)
• CAS BI 545 Neurobiology of Motivated Behavior (4)
• CAS BI 575 Techniques in Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience (4)
• CAS BI 599 Neurobiology of Synapses (4)
• CAS PS 530 Neural Models of Memory Function (4)
• GMS AN 702 *Neurobiology of Learning and Memory (2)
• GMS AN 709 *Neural Development and Plasticity (2)
• GMS AN 804 *Methods in Neuroscience (4)
• GMS AN 807 *Neurobiology of the Visual System (2)
• GMS BN 798 *Functional Neuroanatomy in Neuropsychology (4)
• GMS PM 860 *Electrophysiology and Pharmacology of the Synapse (2)
• GMS PM 892 *Molecular and Neural Bases of Learning Behaviors (2)
• GRS BI 644 Neuroethology (4)
• GRS BI 645 Cellular and Molecular Neurophysiology (4)
• GRS BI 655 Developmental Neurobiology (4)
• GRS BI 681 Molecular Biology of the Neuron (4)
• SAR HS 550 Neural Systems (4)
• SAR HS 755 Readings in Neuroscience (4)

Relevant to Biomedical & Translational

• CAS BI 554 Neuroendocrinology (4)
• GMS AN 707 *Neurobiology of Aging (2)
• GMS AN 713 *Autism: Clinical and Neuroscience Perspectives (2)
• GMS AN 808 *Neuroanatomical Basis of Neurological Disorders (2)
• GMS BN 782 *Forensic Neuropsychology (4)
• GMS BN 793 *Adult Communication Disorders (4)
• GMS BN 796 *Neuropsychological Assessment I (4)
• GMS BN 797 *Neuropsychological Assessment II (4)
• GMS BN 821 *Neuroimaging Seminar (2)
• GMS BN 891 & 892 *Case Studies in Neuropsychology (three different clinical rounds, sections A1, B1, and C1) (2 credits each section)
• GMS BN 893 *Child Clinical Neuropsychology (4)
• GMS IM 690 *Imaging of Neurologic Disease (2)
• GMS PM 820 *Neuropsychopharmacology (2)
• GMS PM 840 *Neuroendocrine Pharmacology (2)
• GMS PM 850 *Biochemical Neuropharmacology (2)

Behavioral & Cognitive Neuroscience

• CAS PS 520 Research Methods in Perception and Cognition (4)
• CAS PS 525 Cognitive Science (4)
• CAS PS 528 Human Brain Mapping (4)
• CAS PS 544 Developmental Neuropsychology (4)
• CAS PS 721 General Experimental (4)
• CAS PS 734 Psychopharmacology (4)
• CAS PS 737 Memory Systems of the Brain (4)
• CAS PS 738 Techniques in Systems & Behavioral Neuroscience (4)
• CAS PS 821 Learning (4)
• CAS PS 822 Visual Perception (4)
• CAS PS 824 Cognitive Psychology (4)
• CAS PS 828 Seminar in Psycholinguistics (4)
• CAS PS 831 Seminar in Neuropsychology (4)
• CAS PS 833 Advanced Physiological Psychology (4)
• CAS PS 835 Attention (4)
• ENG BE 715 Functional Neuroimaging (4)
• GMS AN 716 *Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience (4)
• GMS BN 795 *Neuropsychology of Perception and Memory (4)
• GRS PS 829 Principles in Neuropsychology (4)

Theoretical & Computational Neuroscience

• CAS CN 500 Computational Methods in Cognitive and Neural Systems (4)
• CAS CN 510 Principles and Methods of Cognitive and Neural Modeling I (4)
• CAS CN 520 Principles and Methods of Cognitive and Neural Modeling II (4)
• CAS CN 530 Neural and Computational Models of Vision (4)
• CAS CN 540 Neural and Computational Models of Adaptive Movement and Planning Control (4)
• CAS CN 550 Neural and Computational Models of Recognition, Memory, and Attention (4)
• CAS CN 560 (colisted as BE 509) Neural and Computational Models of Speech and Hearing (4)
• CAS CN 570 Neural and Computational Models of Conditioning, Reinforcement, Motivation, and Rhythm (4)
• CAS CN 580 Introduction to Computational Neuroscience (4)
• ENG BE 509 (colisted as CN 560) Quantitative Physiology of the Auditory System (4)
• ENG BE 570 Introduction to Computational Vision (4)
• ENG BE 701 Auditory Signal Processing: Peripheral (4)
• ENG BE 702 Auditory Signal Processing: Central (4)
• ENG BE 707 Quantitative Studies of Excitable Membranes (4)
• ENG BE 710 Neural Plasticity and Perceptual Learning (4)
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Phd in neuroscience: requirements, salary, jobs, & career growth, what is phd in neuroscience.

A PhD in Neuroscience is a doctoral degree that focuses on the nervous system, which includes the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves.

Neuroscience is an interdisciplinary field that integrates elements of biology, psychology, physics, chemistry, and other disciplines to study the structure and function of the nervous system at many levels, ranging from molecules and cells to circuits and behavior.

A PhD in Neuroscience program allows students to specialize in fields such as cognitive neuroscience, developmental neuroscience, computational neuroscience, neuropharmacology, neurophysiology, neuroanatomy, or clinical neuroscience, among others.

How much money do people make with a PhD in Neuroscience?

Individuals with a PhD in Neuroscience can earn better pay than others with less knowledge in the discipline, however the exact salary can vary greatly.

Salaries in academia, which includes jobs such as postdoctoral researchers, research scientists, and professors, can vary greatly based on experience and institution.

According to BLS and other sources, the median annual wage for postsecondary biological science teachers (which includes many neuroscience faculty positions) was around $83,000 in 2021, while the median annual wage for medical scientists (including neuroscience researchers) was around $88,000.

Salary levels in industry or the private sector can also vary greatly based on the type of company, level of specialization, and location.

One in pharmaceutical or biotechnology businesses, for example, where brain research may be focused on drug discovery or clinical trials, may pay more than academic ones.

Professions in research and development (R&D) or leadership roles in neuroscience-related sectors may also pay more than entry-level or technician professions.

What is expected job growth with PhD in Neuroscience?

Individuals with a PhD in Neuroscience have a generally good job growth prognosis, albeit this can vary based on the exact career path and geographic area.

Neuroscience is a fast expanding profession with an increasing demand for knowledge of the brain and nervous system. Neuroscience researchers and faculty posts in universities, research organizations, and academic medical facilities are often in high demand.

However, competition for tenure-track posts can be severe, and obtaining a permanent teaching position may necessitate much effort and experience.

PhD-trained neuroscientists can find work in pharmaceutical and biotechnology businesses, neuroscience-related sectors, and research and development (R&D) positions in the private sector.

Positions such as research scientists, drug discovery scientists, clinical researchers, and data scientists are examples of these.

There may also be chances in science communication, policy, and advocacy, as well as consultancy and other positions requiring neurological competence.

Furthermore, with a greater emphasis on brain health and neurological illnesses, neuroscientists may be in higher demand in healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation facilities.

Opportunities in government agencies, non-profit organizations, and other sectors requiring competence in neuroscience research and application may also exist.

What can you do with a PhD in Neuroscience?

With a PhD in Neuroscience, you can follow a variety of employment options based on your interests, talents, and ambitions. Individuals with a PhD in Neuroscience may pursue the following careers:

1. Academic research and education: Many PhD-trained neuroscientists work as postdoctoral researchers, research scientists, or faculty members at universities, research institutions, and academic medical facilities. They do original research, publish scientific publications, acquire research funding, and teach and mentor students in subjects relevant to neurology.

2. Industry and the private sector: PhD-trained neuroscientists can find work in pharmaceutical and biotechnology businesses, neuroscience-related sectors, and research and development (R&D) positions. Positions such as research scientists, drug discovery scientists, clinical researchers, data scientists, and others involved in discovering novel medications, conducting clinical trials, or analyzing and interpreting data may fall into this category.

3. Science communication and policy: Some individuals with a PhD in Neuroscience may choose to work in science communication, policy, or advocacy roles, where they translate scientific research for public understanding, engage in science policy, or advocate for evidence-based neuroscience and brain health policies. This can include working in government agencies, non-profit groups, or the media.

4. Healthcare and clinical practice: Neuroscientists with a PhD may also work in healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation facilities, as clinical researchers, neurodiagnosticians, or neurorehabilitation specialists. They may be involved in patient care, clinical research, or the development of new therapeutics for neurological illnesses.

5. Consulting and industry collaborations: PhD-trained neuroscientists may serve as consultants for a variety of businesses, including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, medical devices, and others, providing experience in neuroscience research, data analysis, and product development. They may also work on research and development projects with industrial partners.

6. Entrepreneurship and startups: Some PhD-level neuroscientists may choose to start their own businesses or work with startups, leveraging their neuroscience expertise to develop innovative technologies, products, or services related to brain health, neurotechnology, or other neuroscience applications.

7. Non-profit and advocacy organizations: Non-profit and advocacy organizations focused on neuroscience research, brain health, and neurological illnesses may hire individuals with a PhD in Neuroscience. These groups could be involved in research financing, education, patient advocacy, or policy activities.

What are the requirements for a PhD in Neuroscience?

The specific requirements for obtaining a PhD in Neuroscience can vary depending on the institution and program, but generally, the following are common requirements:

1. Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree: Applicants to most PhD programs in Neuroscience must have a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university. Although it is not usually required, certain schools may accept applicants with a Master’s degree in a related discipline.

2. Academic Transcripts: Applicants are usually expected to present certified transcripts of their undergraduate and graduate education, which demonstrate their academic performance and achievement.

3. Statement of Purpose: Applicants are typically expected to provide a personal statement or statement of purpose detailing their research interests, academic ambitions, and reason for pursuing a PhD in Neuroscience.

4. Standardized Test Scores: Applicants to many PhD programs may be required to submit scores from standardized tests such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or other related assessments.

5. Letters of Recommendation: Applicants to PhD programs in Neuroscience are frequently required to provide letters of recommendation from academic or professional sources who may speak to the applicant’s academic talents, research potential, and eligibility for a PhD program.

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How long does it take to get a phd in neuroscience.

The time it takes to acquire a PhD in Neuroscience depends on a number of factors, including the specific school, the individual’s rate of advancement, and the requirements of the research topic. In general, a PhD in Neuroscience normally requires 4-6 years of full-time study and research after completing a bachelor’s degree.

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Do you need a masters in neuroscience to get a phd in neuroscience.

In general, admission to most PhD programs in Neuroscience does not require applicants to hold a Master’s degree in Neuroscience or a related discipline.

A Master’s degree in Neuroscience or a related discipline, on the other hand, can be advantageous in the PhD application process.

A Master’s degree in Neuroscience might show PhD program admissions committees that an applicant has a solid understanding of the topic through coursework, research experience, and possibly publications.

It may also suggest that the applicant has already gained some research abilities and expertise that will be beneficial in obtaining a PhD in Neuroscience.

What are the Best PhD in Neuroscience Degree programs?

1. harvard university – phd in neuroscience 2. massachusetts institute of technology (mit) – phd in brain and cognitive sciences 3. stanford university – phd in neurosciences 4. university of california, san francisco (ucsf) – phd in neuroscience 5. johns hopkins university – phd in neuroscience 6. university of california, berkeley (uc berkeley) – phd in neuroscience 7. washington university in st. louis – phd in neuroscience 8. duke university – phd in neurobiology 9. yale university – phd in neuroscience 10. university of pennsylvania – phd in neuroscience, leave a comment cancel reply.

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Lab Coordinator Position @ UC San Diego, San Diego CA

The Visual Learning Lab, directed by Dr. Bria Long, is seeking a full-time research coordinator to begin Summer or Fall of 2024, with a flexible start date.

The lab uses behavioral and computational methods to investigate how we learn to derive visual meaning. The laboratory coordinator’s responsibilities will center on research activities including recruiting, scheduling, and testing infant and child participants using head-mounted eye-trackers/cameras and tablet-based experiments. The coordinator will also be responsible for managing the computational resources necessary for analyzing large-scale behavioral and video data.

The position presents an opportunity to work very closely with the PI to launch the lab in it's first year. The position will maintain and purchase lab equipment, maintain and update IRB protocols and participant databases, communicate with collaborating sites and local children's museums, coordinate social media outreach, hardware, and IT infrastructure for the lab. The research coordinator will also organize and attend weekly lab meetings and is encouraged to attend other scientific talks and be a member of the intellectual community at UCSD. The position will involve working closely with the PI and will present the opportunity to build skills in designing experiments and analyzing, presenting, and publishing data as well as skills in computational modeling (e.g., deep neural networks).

Willingness to transfer some weekday hours to weekends for data collection with families that cannot participate during the week is preferred.

Please submit a cover letter along with a resume stating interest in the position and relevant qualifications.

QUALIFICATIONS

Experience interacting with parents and working with infants or children, preferably in a research or professional setting.

Must have reliable transportation for commuting to offsite testing locations.

Experience assisting with behavioral or cognitive neuroscience research.

Familiarity with computer programming and ability to quickly learn new technical skills.

Graduation from high school or a General Education Diploma and two years of laboratory experience or two years of college including courses in psychology, linguistics, and/or cognitive science and one year of laboratory experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Bachelor’s degree or equivalent (preferred).

Demonstrated skill interacting with colleagues and other adults in a professional setting.

Strong organization skills and exceptional attention to detail.

Highly self-motivated, able to solve problems independently and with initiative.

Written communication skills needed for corresponding with families and coordinating with colleagues.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Background Check required.

Click here for more information and to apply

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