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Best Neuroscience PhD Programs: Careers, and More [2024]

Are you looking for the best neuroscience PhD programs of 2024? You’re lucky because I have compiled the best neuroscience PhD programs list. Before we get into the individual programs, let’s first dive into what neuroscience is.

Neuroscience is a branch of biological science studying the brain, emphasizing its biochemistry, molecular biology, psychology, and anatomy to understand human and animal behavior. It offers an in-depth understanding of brain diseases and abnormalities so we can develop solutions using studies with neuroscientific models.

An expert neuroscientist can make significant contributions to society, and a PhD in neuroscience will equip you to pursue a prestigious career in the field. According to Salary Expert , the average annual salary of neuroscience PhD holders is $113,946. That number is expected to rise to $129,991 by 2028, making this one of the highest-paying PhDs .

Ready to find your dream PhD program in neuroscience? Let’s get started.

Table of Contents

Best Neuroscience PhD Programs

Harvard university, harvard medical school.

Ph.D. Program in Neuroscience (PiN)

The Neurobiology Department of Harvard Medical School is the first research department in the world to take an interdisciplinary, systemic approach to studying the human brain. This program is one of the more competitive PhDs in neuroscience and offers a wide range of electives in a flexible format. Students can easily balance their coursework and lab work with hybrid and online learning.

• Courses : Quantitative methods for biologists, rotations in neuroscience, and discipline of neuroscience.
• Duration : 3 years or more
• Delivery : On-campus
• Tuition : Full funding
• Financial aid : Full tuition/stipend support, health insurance, childcare support, parental support, and travel allowance.
• Acceptance rate:  5%
• Location : Boston, Massachusetts

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Brain and Cognitive Sciences PhD Program

MIT’s Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences claims to produce the world’s sharpest and most innovative brain scientists. This PhD program enables students to pursue cutting-edge research that seeks to push the boundaries of neuroscientific knowledge.

• Courses : Molecular & cellular neuroscience, computational cognitive science, and statistics for neuroscience research.
• Duration : 5 years plus
• Tuition : $29,875 per term
• Financial aid:  Scholarships, loans, and health insurance.
• Acceptance rate : 7.3%
• Location : Cambridge, Massachusetts

Stanford University, School of Medicine

Neurosciences Ph.D. Program

Stanford is one of the leading research universities in the world. This PhD program is one of 14 “Biosciences Home Programs” offered by the institution’s School of Medicine. One of the best neuroscience PhD programs the USA provides, it enables students to design their post-graduate studies by working collaboratively with an extensive network of faculty and labs.

• Courses : Responsible conduct of neuroscience, neuroscience systems core, and neurogenetics core.
• Credits : 135 units
• Duration : 5 years
• Tuition : Refer tuition page
• Financial aid: Fellowships, grants, research assistantships, teaching assistantships, and veteran benefits.
• Acceptance rate : 5.2%
• Location : Stanford, California

Princeton University, Graduate School

Ph.D. in Neuroscience

Princeton University is a globally acclaimed school with a long list of Nobel laureates and other honors. This one in our list of the best neuroscience PhD programs emphasizes hands-on experience, encouraging students to apply the concepts they learn in lectures in the lab.

• Courses : Cellular & circuits Neuroscience, computational neuroscience, and Statistics for Neuroscience.
• Tuition : $59,710 per year
• Financial aid : Fellowships, research assistantships, teaching assistantships, external funding, travel grants, veteran benefits, and loans.
• Acceptance rate : 5.6%
• Location : Princeton, New Jersey

Yale University, School of Medicine

Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program

Yale is another world-renowned university with several cultural centers to preserve the institution’s unique cultural identity. This interdepartmental PhD program is called a “department without walls” as it allows students to explore every aspect of neuroscience with the help of over 100 faculty members from more than twenty departments.

• Courses : Principles of neuroscience, foundations of systems neuroscience, and bioethics in neuroscience.
• Duration : Up to 7 years
• Tuition : $48,300 per year
• Financial aid : Fellowships, awards, research assistantships, loans, and travel funds.
• Acceptance rate : 6.5%
• Location : New Haven, Connecticut

The University of California San Francisco, Weill Institute for Neurosciences

Neuroscience Graduate Program

The University of California San Francisco is a big name committed to diversity and follows the JEDI (justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion) approach to promote a positive campus environment. This post-graduate program allows students to work collaboratively with faculty members across various departments who are well-known names in their respective fields.

• Courses : Cellular & molecular neuroscience, systems & behavioral neuroscience, and computational neuroscience.
• Duration : 4 – 6 years
• Tuition : $11,442 per year
• Financial aid : Fellowships, awards, grants, and teaching assistantships.
• Acceptance rate : 3.7%
• Location : San Francisco, California

Brown University

Brown University is located in the culturally diverse city of Providence, Rhode Island. The program emphasizes intellectual freedom and has an “Open Curriculum” system at the undergraduate level, which confirms this. This PhD in neuroscience program involves various experimental approaches, including a Graduate Partnership Program (GPP) with NIH (National Institutes of Health).

• Courses : Advanced molecular & cellular neurobiology, advanced systems neuroscience, and neuroanatomy.
• Tuition : $8,207 per course
• Financial aid : Full funding, stipend, health insurance, grants, fellowships, and teaching assistantships.
• Acceptance rate : 7.7%
• Location : Providence, Rhode Island

Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine

Neuroscience Training Program

The Neuroscience Department at Johns Hopkins University was one of the country’s first academic centers for Neuroscience. Its PhD program is well-regarded, offering students ample opportunities for lab rotations, a wide selection of electives, and seminar series from eminent national and international scholars.

• Courses : Neuroscience cognition, quantitative methods for the brain sciences, and neuron models.
• Duration : 3 years plus
• Tuition : Full tuition, stipend, and benefits
• Financial aid:  Fellowships, loans, scholarships, and grants.
• Acceptance rate : 11.1%
• Location : Baltimore, Maryland

California Institute of Technology, Division of Biology and Biological Engineering

Neurobiology Graduate Program

Caltech is a private institution dedicated to excellence in technological education and research. This Ph.D. program allows students to conduct advanced research in molecular mechanisms of nervous system development, the evolution of the brain and behavior in primates, neuroscience of brain disorders, and neuro-engineering.

• Courses : Tools of neurobiology, molecular, cellular, and developmental neurobiology, and circuits, systems, and behavioral biology.
• Credits : 54 units (6 quarter courses)
• Tuition : $56,364 per year
• Financial aid : Teaching assistantships, fellowships, loans, research assistantships, and full funding.
• Acceptance rate : 6.7%
• Location : Pasadena, California

The University of Chicago, Biological Sciences Division

PhD Program in Computational Neuroscience

The University of Chicago is a renowned institution that has pioneered neuroscience research by eminent scientists like K. C. Cole, Stephen Polyak, and Jack Cowan. The school’s PhD in Computational Neuroscience offers an in-depth understanding of how various neural components affect human and animal behavior.

• Courses : Cellular neurobiology, methods in computational neuroscience, and behavioral neuroscience.
• Tuition : $19,035 per quarter
• Financial aid : Grants, fellowships, awards, stipends, and research assistantships.
• Location : Chicago, Illinois

What Do I Need to Get a PhD in Neuroscience?

You’ll need an undergraduate degree in biological sciences or a related field. Some programs may also require a master’s in a relevant field; others may ask for GRE scores as part of the application process. You must complete coursework, research, and a dissertation paper throughout the program, meet teaching requirements and seminars, and pass qualifying examinations.

What to Consider When Choosing a Neuroscience PhD Program

Neuroscience is a highly specialized field that often involves interdisciplinary research. Therefore, looking for programs offering specializations in your areas of interest and with faculty members who are experts in these fields is essential. It’s also vital to consider applicable tuition, other fees, location, and whether the program offers the type of study you want (on-campus, online, or hybrid learning).

Once you decide on the best neuroscience PhD program for you, laying some groundwork is a good idea. This will help you create a more robust application and better prepare for the program. Read up on the latest neuroscience research and think about potential subjects for your dissertation. Build your sector network and start making connections that will help you with your studies and beyond.

Why Get a Doctorate in Neuroscience?

A doctorate in neuroscience can make you a valuable expert in one of the top branches of the biological sciences. You’ll have plenty of opportunities in this field to perform exciting, valuable, and innovative research.

This advanced degree will also qualify you for many well-paid roles, including:

• Medical Science Liaison ( $149,911 )
• Senior Clinical Research Associate ( $114,764 )
• Neuroscientist ( $81,661 )
• Research Scientist ( $87,532 )
• Program Director, Healthcare ( $87,780 )
• Assistant Professor, Postsecondary/Higher Education ( $73,907 )

PhD in Neuroscience: Key Facts

What is the average cost of a phd in neuroscience.

The cost of completing a Ph.D. in neuroscience varies depending on factors like the school, the program, and other expenses like accommodation. A reputable PhD in neuroscience program can range anywhere from $10K to $60K per year.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Neuroscience?

Getting a PhD in Neuroscience usually takes between 3 and 7 years.

What Skills Do You Gain from a PhD in Neuroscience?

A PhD in Neuroscience awards you a range of skills, most notably:

• The ability to develop testable neuroscientific hypotheses  and conduct studies using experimental, statistical, and literature review methods.
• Laboratory skills  related to  researching behavioral Neuroscience concepts.
• Scientific written communication skills.

PhD Neuroscience Program Statistics

• A PhD in neuroscience program can expect hundreds of applicants — the average is around 170 .
• Most neuroscience PhD candidates have an undergraduate degree in psychology, biology, or neuroscience , though they may have backgrounds in other fields, even non-science ones such as business or humanities.
• Most schools only accept a few neuroscience PhD candidates a year based on stringent criteria. For example, The University of Texas at Dallas accepts an average of 10-20 students per year.

Key Takeaways

With intake numbers for PhDs in neuroscience programs being relatively small, it’s essential to start preparing early to assemble the most robust application possible. Once you get accepted into your dream program, the future will be bright, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimating a 10% growth in jobs for medical scientists between 2022 and 2032. From high salary prospects to the opportunity to make valuable contributions to society, you’re sure to have a rewarding career as a neuroscientist!

If you’re deciding between neuroscience and psychology, check out our guides to the best Master’s in Psychology  and the best online PhD in Psychology programs .

Frequently Asked Questions

How competitive are neuroscience doctoral programs.

Neuroscience PhD programs can be highly competitive. Even when there are hundreds of applicants, only 10 or so may be accepted each year by each program. Therefore, it’s essential to have a strong academic record and prepare a compelling application to be accepted into your dream program.

Do Neuroscientists Need a PhD?

This depends on the exact neuroscience role you want. Typically, you’ll need a PhD in neuroscience to work as a research scientist, senior research associate, or neuroscience professor at a post-secondary school. However, you may be eligible for entry-level neuroscience roles with an undergraduate or master’s degree .

Does Harvard Have a Neuroscience Major?

Yes, Harvard University offers one of the USA’s most reputable neuroscience doctorate programs .

Lisa Marlin

Lisa is a full-time writer specializing in career advice, further education, and personal development. She works from all over the world, and when not writing you'll find her hiking, practicing yoga, or enjoying a glass of Malbec.

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Brain and Cognitive Sciences PhD Program

Graduate students in the Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences are among the sharpest, most innovative brain scientists to be found anywhere. In a given year the department admits less than 5 percent of applicants, and our PhD program is consistently ranked among the best in the world. Students work hard to get here, and they are highly valued in the BCS community.

Innovative:  Our students often take on riskier projects and pilot studies that probe the edges of our technical and scientific knowledge. They can move among projects more easily, and their successes lay the foundation for not only their careers but the future directions of their mentors’ labs.

Collaborative:  Our students bring bold, fresh thinking to the department, and exploring these potentially transformative ideas often means reaching across boundaries of lab, center, and department to build new collaborations. Graduate students help BCS mesh with the rest of MIT.

Supportive: Graduate students are the most frequent mentors of undergraduate students in UROPs , actively guiding and developing those who will become the next generation of top-tier graduate students. BCS graduate students also are helping make sure the department is a welcoming, inclusive, and equitable community.

Overview of the Program

Graduate students in the Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences work with an advisor and advisory committee to pursue an innovative and rigorous program of original research. Students should aim to complete their PhD in five to six years.  

• Students take three to four of their required six courses
• Students complete required Responsible Conduct in Science training.
• Students complete a minimum of three lab rotations by March 31.
• Students select a thesis advisor by April 30.    
• Students complete the remaining two to three of their academic course requirements by the end of the Spring Term.
• Students complete teaching assistant training and their first teaching (TA) requirement.
• Students form their qualifying exam advisory committee, have their first committee meeting, and turn in the completed committee meeting form to BCS HQ by the end of the Spring Term. 
• Students should plan which activities they will participate in to fulfill the professional development requirement .
• Students complete the second teaching requirement.
• Students complete the written and oral qualifying exam in October or November.
• Students form a thesis committee, submit a written thesis proposal to their committee, orally present their proposal to the thesis committee, and receive committee approval, before the end of the Spring Term.
• Students fulfill their professional development requirement by the end of the Summer term of their fourth year.
• Students must meet with their thesis committee once per year.
• Students take the final steps to completing the PhD oral examination (also known as the thesis defense) and submission of the approved written dissertation.

For detailed information on courses, rotations, and other program requirements, see Program Details .

Neuroscience Ph.D. Program

Our Neuroscience Ph.D. Program is one of the best in the nation, and prepares students to become independent researchers, educators and trainers making significant contributions across all aspects of the field.

Program Overview

Our program combines rigorous coursework and sound training in the fundamentals of neuroscience, including the integrated study of nervous system function and disease, with opportunities for state-of-the-art research. 

Please reach out to Bruce Carter if you have any questions about the Neuroscience Ph.D. Program or the application process.

Bruce Carter

Director of Graduate Studies in Neuroscience

Associate Director for Education and Training, Vanderbilt Brain Institute Professor of Biochemistry

• 615-936-3041
• 625 Light Hall

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We foster the development from trainee to independent research scientist and educator.

Individualized Attention

With 81 graduate students and 64 training faculty, our excellent student-teacher ratio results in extensive opportunities for interaction and exchange of ideas in a relaxed and collegial atmosphere. Our distinguished training faculty stem from diverse fields such as Psychology, Biochemistry, Molecular Physiology, and Pharmacology and capture the multidisciplinary nature of modern neurobiological inquiry.

Career Outlook

Graduates of our department are superbly prepared for a variety of career options in both academia and industry. Each student's program is designed to provide a broad-based education in neuroscience, yet accommodate individual needs and interests to allow students to become creative, independent scientists.

Students holding degrees in the biological or physical sciences, psychology, or biomedical engineering are especially encouraged to apply to the Neuroscience Ph.D. Program, but applicants from other fields will be considered.

Areas of Concentration

The Neuroscience Ph.D program offers two areas of concentration. Students have the option to emphasize either Cellular & Molecular or Cognitive & Systems neuroscience, preparing each trainee for a future in which neuroscientists must be able to navigate from molecules to cells to neural systems and behavior.

Cognitive & Systems

This path provides doctoral training with emphasis on cognitive neuroscience, sensory-motor systems, neuroimaging, neural development, synaptic plasticity, neurobiological basis of neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders, and targeted gene disruption in transgenic animals to ascertain the function of neural genes and establish disease models.

Cellular & Molecular

This path provides doctoral training with emphasis on neurogenetics and genetic dissection of neural development, molecular aspects of synapse formation and plasticity, structure and regulation of ion channels and transporters, targeting and signal transduction, psychotropic drug action, the molecular basis of neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders, and targeted gene disruption in transgenic animals to ascertain the function of neural genes and establish disease models.

Cellular & Molecular Application Tip

Students with broad biomedical interests are encouraged to apply through the Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Biological and Biomedical Sciences instead of directly through the Neuroscience Ph.D. Program. This pathways provides a strong foundation in biomedical science prior to matriculation into neuroscience.

Students begin their first year with a general course in graduate level cellular and molecular biology and then begin specialized courses in Neuroscience in the spring semester of their first year.

Grants and Awards

University Tuition Scholarships are service-free awards that pay all or part of tuition costs. The following graduate awards are normally supplemented by a full University Tuition Scholarship, which usually includes student health insurance coverage:

• University Fellowships
• Graduate Teaching Assistantships
• Graduate Research Assistantships
• Traineeships
• Teacher Training Awards

The current stipend level for 2023-2024 is $36,500. In addition, applicants may be nominated at the time of application for Harold S. Vanderbilt graduate scholarships and other awards, which provide an additional stipend of up to $10,000 per year to students of exceptional accomplishment and high promise.

Training in Fundamental Neuroscience T32 Grant

The Neuroscience Graduate Program receives invaluable support from the "Training in Fundamental Neuroscience" NIH T32. Over 70 mentors across 22 departments within 4 schools and colleges are available to train students, with 65+ Neuroscience trainees earning PhDs in the past 5 years. Over 60 trainees have been supported by the T32 since its inception, with over a third subsequently securing their own fellowship funding. Program graduates have gone on to leadership positions in academia, industry, and additional research-related fields, providing a rich alumni network across multiple career tracks. The program includes works-in-progress seminars by all Neuroscience trainees, invited external seminar speakers including several suggested or hosted by trainees, and an annual retreat.

Graduate students interested in joining the training program should contact Dr. Bruce Carter, Associate Director for Education & Training and Director of Graduate Studies for the VBI.

Faculty interested in becoming T32 preceptors should contact Dr. Rebecca A. Ihrie or Dr. Lisa Monteggia, VBI Director.

Rebecca A. Ihrie

Associate Professor, Cell & Developmental Biology and Neurological Surgery

• 615-936-2951
• B2317 Medical Center North

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Graduate students in the Neuroscience Graduate program receiving Vanderbilt University financial support or services must devote full-time effort to graduate study. Students cannot accept jobs for pay within or outside the University unless prior approval is given by their advisor, their Director of Graduate Studies, and the Dean for the Office of Biomedical Research Education and Training. Exceptions to this rule include part-time internships and activities that contribute to career development and that do not exceed the time commitment outlined by the National Institutes of Health, service as course associates at Vanderbilt, and occasional and temporary part-time pursuits (e.g. house sitting). Engagement in outside employment without obtaining approval may result in loss of financial aid, including stipend.

Why Stanford Neuroscience?

Students have the opportunity to work with any of the  faculty members  who are affiliated with the Neuroscience program. Our faculty come from departments campuswide including Neurobiology, Neurology & Neurological Sciences, Neurosurgery, Biology, Genetics, Comparative Medicine, Electrical Engineering, Otolaryngology, Psychiatry, Psychology, Applied Physics, Molecular & Cellular Physiology, Ophthalmology, and Anesthesia. All are distinguished scientists who have made fundamental discoveries in all areas of neuroscience from molecules to cognition, and have international reputations for excellence in both research and teaching.

After completing core courses in the first year, students are encouraged to take courses in any department that may benefit their research (e.g.,  biosciences, math, and engineering). Students can choose how they would like to distribute their credit requirements, offering great flexibility in their coursework. Stanford School of Medicine continually strives to improve the graduate education system. 

The program has a strong community, fostered in part by the Stanford Immersive Neuroscience course for first year students, an annual retreat held in Monterey, and many other student-run events that encourage mingling such as SIN Tea Time, Neuro Student Network panel discussions and fireside chats, happy hours, and DEIB coffee hours. Starting in the fourth year, students present their work to the community during monthly Superfriends gatherings. Our students also lead a homegrown neuroblog -  NeuWrite West  - to improve their own skills in communicating science to a general audience.

Students participate in a variety of activities both on and off campus. The gorgeous weather year-round allows students to hike, bike, and rock climb in the area, with weekend ski trips to Lake Tahoe common in the winter. Our students have performed with the Stanford Chamber Chorale, Stanford Medicine Chorus, Stanford Shakespeare company, swing and salsa clubs, and local music groups. The graduate community organizes social events including movie nights, restaurant outings, and parties.  

Admissions Information

How to Apply and Important Dates

How to Apply

• Applications for Autumn 2025 will be available on the  Biosciences Admissions website  in September 2024.
• For general information about application procedures, documents, test scores, and more, visit the  Biosciences Admissions page .
• Fee waivers are available. Visit the  Biosciences Admissions page  - Application Fee and Fee Waivers section - for more information.
• Prior to starting an application, review all information on this site, on the  Biosciences Admissions website , and the  Graduate Admissions   website.

Important Dates

• Application Deadline: Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at 11:59:59 pm (PST). Late applications will not be accepted.
• Invitations to Interviews: Sent in January 2025
• Interview Session: Wednesday, March 5 through Sunday, March 9, 2025 (In Person)
• Mid-March 2025: Offers of Admission Begin
• April 15, 2025: Deadline to Accept Offer of Admission

Eligibility

The Stanford Neurosciences Program is committed to training a diverse group of neuroscientists who come from a wide range of ethnic, cultural, educational, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Qualified applicants who are neither U.S. citizens nor permanent residents are eligible for admission. 

The Neurosciences program   recognizes that the Supreme Court issued a ruling in June 2023 about the consideration of certain types of demographic information as part of an admission review. All applications submitted during upcoming application cycles will be reviewed in conformance with that decision.

The Neurosciences program   welcomes graduate applications from individuals with a broad range of life experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds who would contribute to our community of scholars. The review process is holistic and individualized, considering each applicant’s academic record and accomplishments, letters of recommendation, prior research experience, and admissions essays to understand how an applicant’s life experiences have shaped their past and potential contributions to their field and how they might enrich the learning community at Stanford.

Students are admitted into the program each year from a variety of disciplines. There is no one “right” way into the Neurosciences Program and no one “composite” student. Because of the interdisciplinary nature of the Neurosciences, students are enrolled with backgrounds ranging from computational to biological; the program selects talented and highly motivated students with evidence of creativity and scientific rigor, regardless of exact disciplinary background. 

Students are selected from diverse backgrounds based on a variety of factors, including academic achievements, letters of recommendation attesting to research and academic skills, and statement of purpose. The admissions committee works very hard to holistically evaluate each applicant. 

There is no minimum GPA requirement and GRE scores are not considered. 

We do not publicly share information about the average scores of applicants or matriculated students.

The program does not have specific course requirements or recommendations to be considered for admission. However, students from traditional biology backgrounds are expected to show strong achievement in molecular and cellular biology, biochemistry and neuroscience. Students from more quantitative backgrounds should demonstrate considerable competence in mathematics (calculus, differential equations, linear algebra), physics, probability theory, and statistics. Students from psychology backgrounds should be well versed in cognitive science, experimental psychology, neuroscience and statistics. Advice on how to choose between neuroscience and psychology programs is offered  here  by one of our faculty members.

Research experience is very important, but the exact disciplinary area is not critical. 

Publications are not required for admission.

You will only need an advanced degree (M.A., M.S.) to apply if you do not meet the Minimum Education Requirements which can be found on the  Graduate Admissions  website.

Application Submission

We generally receive several hundred applications each admissions cycle. All applications are reviewed after the final deadline. However, it is important not to wait until the last minute to submit your application and certainly it is important to give your letter writers plenty of advance notice of the deadline.

• GRE scores are not considered in the Neurosciences program admissions process.

Letters of Recommendation 

• Three letters of recommendation are required, but you may have up to four letters submitted on your behalf.  As part of the online application, you will be required to register the names and contact information, including e-mail addresses, of your recommenders. Recommenders will then receive an e-mail with directions on how to proceed. 
• All recommendations must be submitted using the online application system as recommenders are required to respond to specific evaluation questions on the recommendation form. Letters of recommendation cannot be submitted via a letter service (i.e. Interfolio), mailed, emailed, or faxed. Please remember that letters written specifically for your Stanford graduate program tend to be stronger than letters written for general use purposes.
• Please be sure that you ask for a recommendation from at least one individual who can address your potential for original and creative research. In most cases, that individual would be the person guiding your most recent research activities. It is very important that you contact your recommenders before submitting their information in the online application. You must choose whether or not to waive your right to see a recommendation. It may be that a recommender will not submit a recommendation if you have not waived the right to see it. This should be discussed in advance. Your choice will be transmitted to the recommender in the instructional email they will receive.
• For more information please see the Biosciences Admissions page .  

Transcripts

Applicants may upload unofficial transcripts to the online application form. Official transcripts are only required of admitted applicants who accept the offer of admission. More details on this can be found on the following  Graduate Admissions web page . Please do not send, or have any official transcripts sent, to our office.

Interviews and Acceptance

• Invitations to attend our Interview Session are extended in early- to mid-January.
• Interviews will be conducted in person. There is only one Interview Session.
• If you have extenuating circumstances that may affect your ability to attend Interview Session, please notify program staff right away. We will work with you to make your visit possible and as comfortable as we can. 
• Our office does not have the resources to inform applicants as to why they were not invited to interview. Similarly, we are not able to assess your qualifications as an applicant.  

Acceptances

• 8-15 students are generally accepted each year.
• Generally, applicants being offered admission into the program receive an offer soon after interview session. However, with a rolling admissions process, offers of admission may be extended at any time until April 15.
• Individuals may reapply if not admitted in a given year. 

International Applicants

Applicants who are neither U.S. citizens nor permanent residents are eligible to apply. Stanford offers a limited number of fellowships to outstanding admitted students, and international applicants may be nominated for these fellowships.

Please see the Graduate Admissions  "Required Exams"  web page for information regarding TOEFL requirements and COVID-19 TOEFL Test accommodations. 

Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program

Join dozens of  Stanford Medicine students  who gain valuable leadership skills in a multidisciplinary, multicultural community as  Knight-Hennessy Scholars  (KHS). KHS admits up to 100 applicants each year from across Stanford’s seven graduate schools, and delivers engaging experiences that prepare them to be visionary, courageous, and collaborative leaders ready to address complex global challenges. As a scholar, you join a distinguished cohort, participate in up to three years of KHS's leadership program, and receive full funding for up to three years of your PhD studies at Stanford. Candidates of any country may apply. KHS applicants must have earned their first undergraduate degree within the last seven years, and must apply to both a Stanford graduate program and to KHS. Stanford PhD students may also apply to KHS during their first year of PhD enrollment. If you aspire to be a leader in your field, we invite you to apply. The KHS application deadline is October 9, 2024. Learn more about  KHS admission .

Past Information Sessions and Q&A

Click here to view the recording of our webinar on October 2, 2023.

Q&A / FAQs

Are summer rotations possible? Yes, through the ADVANCE Summer Institute .

Do we state who we want to work with on the application?  There is a place on the applicaiton to list your faculty of interest. 

Is it possible to join a faculty member’s lab who is not part of the training faculty listed on the website? Students who join the Neurosciences program can work with any Biosciences faculty, as long as they agree to our program expectations and requirements . 

How do you tell if you're ready for a PhD program rather than a postbac or Master's program? If you have some experience and are pretty certain that you want to get a PhD in Neuroscience, you don't have much to lose by applying. If you don't have enough experience to know whether you want to be a neuroscientist or do a PhD, it can be really useful to do a postbac or spend additional time doing research. 

How did you know that a PhD was the best step for you? If you want a faculty position, a PhD is not only required for that but also provides training that is useful. Think about how a PhD will help you get where you want to go in your career.

How many students does the program accept who are coming from industry/extensive work experience?  Students in this program come from many backgrounds. A common pathway is working as a post-bacc or lab tech for 2-3 years after gradaution, but there are certainly people who come directly from undergrad, as well as people who have worked in industry for several (5+) years. No single pathway is “correct”!

Is there a clinical component to this program?  No. If you are interested in clinical work, consider an MD or joint MD-PhD (MSTP) program.

How often do labs have students from multiple bioscience disciplines? Is there collaboration across the disciplines aside from classes you can take?  It's very common to have graduate students from different departments/programs in the same lab. 

What is some funding options and resources for DACA (undocumented) students?  We definitely would like to support you! You can email the  Office of Graduate Education  and  Undocumented at Stanford  for more information. 

Is finding funding for a 5th year of research difficult or does the program help with writing for grants or other ways of helping to secure funding?  There are a variety of resources to help students write fellowhip applications/grants (e.g., Grantwriting Academy, SBSA peer mentorship for NSF, NIH NRSA writing course, peer-led workshops), and our students are successful at being funded. PIs are responsible for funding their students in their 5th+ year if the student does not have an individual fellowship. 

According to the graduate housing website, single graduate housing is available to those who are 25 years of age or older. Does this mean that students under the age of 25 would not qualify for any on campus housing?  The age limit is only for undergraduates who wish to live in grad housing. ALL grad students, regardless of age, are eligible for on campus grad housing. As a first-year grad student student, you have top priority and will have a guaranteed spot for on campus housing if you fill out the housing application by the deadline (usually May).

How helpful is it to live near campus in terms of student relationships, research, and access to faculty?  During your first year, living near campus is important because you will be attending classes on campus, be rotating in labs, and there will be a ton of social events going on. As your class requirements diminish and if you are doing more computational research it may be possible to live away from campus. 

Does the Stanford Neuroscience Program have any kind of community outreach program? Specifically, I'm wondering if there is any effort to engage with local middle/high school students and assist them with preparation for college and demystifying research and a career in academia.  Yes, there are several opportunities (not limited to the Neurosciences program, but within the wider Stanford Biosciences community). One that is very neuroscience-specific is Brain Day for local middle-school students, and other programs to share their science/research with local seniors.

Neuroscience

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Neuroscience is an area of study within the Division of Medical Sciences, an administrative unit based at Harvard Medical School that coordinates biomedical PhD activities at the Longwood Medical Area. Students who study in neuroscience receive a PhD in neurobiology. Prospective students apply through the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (Harvard Griffin GSAS). In the online application, select  “Division of Medical Sciences” as your program choice and select "Neuroscience" in the area of study menu.

Neuroscience is one of the programs in the Harvard Integrated Life Sciences that facilitates collaboration and cross-disciplinary research. Visit HILS for additional  application instructions .

This interdisciplinary program includes over 150 faculty members from several hospitals and campuses in the Boston area with a variety of backgrounds in all areas of neuroscience. You will receive a solid core foundation and will then be able to focus on the area that interests you most with specialized training.

You will have access to an impressive array of resources, including state-of-the-art labs, high-resolution microscopy facilities, animal cores, and an instrumentation core that can design custom behavioral chambers and other experimental apparatuses. You will have the opportunity to engage with the broader neuroscience community in several ways, including through the Harvard Brain Science Initiative (HBI), a cross-schools initiative among neuroscientists in the University and its affiliated hospitals.

Students are working on various projects such as studying how neural circuits generate behavior through the use of in vivo imaging to study neurons in awake, behaving animals; the development of the nervous system; the ways in which genes and molecules regulate neural function; and the electrical properties of neurons.

Graduates of the program have secured faculty positions at institutions such as Stanford University, Holy Cross University, Rutgers University, and Harvard University. Others have established careers with leading organizations such as Biogen, Google, and McKinsey & Company. 

Personal Statement

Standardized tests.

GRE General: Not Accepted GRE Subject: Not Accepted iBT TOEFL minimum score: 100 IELTS minimum score: 7

See list of Neuroscience faculty

APPLICATION DEADLINE

Questions about the program.

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.

12 Best universities for Neuroscience in Saint Petersburg

Updated: February 29, 2024

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Below is a list of best universities in Saint Petersburg ranked based on their research performance in Neuroscience. A graph of 68.3K citations received by 8.3K academic papers made by 12 universities in Saint Petersburg was used to calculate publications' ratings, which then were adjusted for release dates and added to final scores.

We don't distinguish between undergraduate and graduate programs nor do we adjust for current majors offered. You can find information about granted degrees on a university page but always double-check with the university website.

1. St. Petersburg State University

For Neuroscience

2. Pavlov First Saint Petersburg State Medical University

3. Peter the Great St.Petersburg Polytechnic University

4. ITMO University

5. Saint Petersburg State Pediatric Medical Academy

6. Leningrad State University

7. Saint Petersburg State Electrotechnical University

8. Saint Petersburg State Institute of Technology

9. St. Petersburg State University of Aerospace Instrumentation

10. St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering

11. Bonch-Bruevich St. Petersburg State University of Telecommunications

12. St. Petersburg State University of Economics

Universities for Neuroscience near Saint Petersburg

Biology subfields in Saint Petersburg

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The Neuroscience Graduate Program promotes interdisciplinary research that crosses traditional disciplinary and departmental boundaries, while providing a strong foundation in the core concepts of neuroscience. Research in the program employs an impressive array of techniques and encompasses multiple levels of investigation from genes, molecules, and cells to neural networks, systems, and behavior.

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Nsgp seminar series presents dr. yves dekoninck; cervo brain research centre, laval university, nsgp thesis defense: remy yael meir, nsgp seminar series presents dr. jennifer morgan, marine biological laboratories at woods hole, nsgp seminar series presents dr. thilo womelsdorf; vanderbilt university.

PhD Program Admissions

Visualization of copper in normal (top row) and mutant (bottom row) zebrafish brains. Image by Tong Xiao, Chang lab.

The application for Fall 2025 admission will open September 12, 2024 and is due on December 2nd, 2024 (by 8:59 pm Pacific Standard Time). 

The Neuroscience PhD Program grants PhDs only. We do not offer a master’s degree. Applications are accepted from the middle of September through early December for admission for Fall of the following year. We do not accept applications for spring semester. All application materials must be received by the deadline. Late applications are not accepted or reviewed. 

Applications will be reviewed holistically, using a rubric that considers academic preparation, research experience, contributions to diversity and community, initiative and motivation, and synergy with the program, each evaluated in the context of the individual applicant.

For more information please visit:

• Which Program is Right For You
• Steps to a PhD
• Application Requirements
• Review Process

Areas of Neuroscience

The Neuroscience PhD Program provides research training in four broad areas of neuroscience: cellular & molecular neuroscience, circuit, systems & behavioral neuroscience, human cognition, and computational neuroscience. Read more about each below.

Molecular & Cellular Neuroscience

Molecular and cellular neuroscientists at Berkeley study neuronal cell biology, cellular physiology, and molecular and genetic basis of neuron, synapse, and glial function. Specific topics include sensory transduction, cellular-level neuronal development, synaptic transmission and plasticity, ion channel physiology, neurodegenerative disease, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Many faculty develop novel molecular genetic tools to more precisely measure cellular physiology or to develop new therapeutical approaches to disease. Methods from molecular biology, computational biology (bioinformatics), and cellular physiology are often used in this research.

Circuit, Systems & Behavioral Neuroscience

Circuit, systems and behavioral neuroscientists at UC Berkeley study how neural circuits, ensembles, and large-scale neural systems process information in order to interpret the sensory world, make and recall memories, and produce specific behaviors. Our faculty study neural systems for sensory processing (vision, audition, touch), innate behaviors, memory, navigation, motivated behaviors, sleep, circadian rhythms, social behaviors, decision making, and more. This research often involves neurophysiology, imaging, and optogenetics experiments, usually in behaving animals. Computational models of neural circuits, and sophisticated data analysis involving modeling and machine learning, are often used in this research.

Cognitive Neuroscience

Cognitive neuroscience at UC Berkeley focuses on human cognition and its brain correlates. Our faculty study the human cognitive abilities and neural mechanisms underlying learning and memory, decision making, perception, reasoning, attention, sleep, motor control, etc. Berkeley human cognition labs employ a broad range of experimental techniques, including functional and structural neuroimaging, electrophysiology, brain stimulation, pharmacology, computational modeling, and quantitative behavioral analyses.

Computational Neuroscience

Although quantitative methods are used in all sub areas of neuroscience for analyzing complex data sets, the focus of Computational Neuroscience is to model the brain or brain function: computational models can attempt to model experimental data obtained in neurophysiological experiments (biophysically plausible models) or model functions achieved by the brain such as object recognition, language comprehension, symbolic manipulations, etc. A strong mathematical and programming background is required for research in Computational Neuroscience.

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

Recorded Info Session:

Friday, November 3, 2023 11am-12pm Pacific Time Neuroscience PhD Program – Diversity Admissions Fair Info Session Hosted by Program Faculty with Current Students Session Recording

Previously Recorded Info Session:

Friday, November 4, 2022 10-11am Pacific Time AMA Grad Student Panel for Prospective Applicants Hosted by Current Students Session Recording

Neuro at JAX

Probing the genetics of neurological disease.

The Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences in Boston, MA, and  The Jackson Laboratory  (JAX) in Bar Harbor, ME, collaboratively offer Neurogenetics (Neuro at JAX) within the  Neuroscience PhD Program . JAX is a premiere, non-profit institution for mammalian genetics and genomics research, focused on the study of health, disease, and treatment. The JAX research community includes a diverse community of about 150 postbacs, graduate students and postdoctoral associates, providing a welcoming, collegial environment for PhD students in the JAX Track.

Students in Neuro at JAX carry out their training at JAX and receive a PhD in Neuroscience from GSBS and Tufts University upon successful completion of the program.

Faculty and Research

Our training faculty is based at JAX and interacts frequently with GSBS faculty based in Boston. 

The research interests of our faculty include neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, dementia, and glaucoma; neuromuscular diseases; addiction and other maladaptive behaviors; sensory systems; and neurodevelopment.

Applicants to the Neuro at JAX track apply to the Neuroscience PhD program at the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (GSBS) using the online application and select Neuro at JAX on the application.

Admitted students carry out all phases of their education in Bar Harbor.

Applicants have the opportunity to meet faculty at The Jackson Laboratory and visit the facility during the admissions process.

Students in Neuro at JAX complete the same curriculum as students in Neuroscience. Didactic course work, journal clubs and seminars are all part of the course of study. These activities are available via video links so that students at all locations can participate.

Like other students in the Neuroscience program, students at JAX carry out three laboratory rotations in their first year to expose them to different research projects, mentors and laboratory settings.

Students have access to all of the scientific resources of The Jackson Laboratory, including comprehensive research core facilities and exceptional training opportunities through JAX’s Courses and Conferences programs.

Meet Our Students

Our program admitted its first students in 2020. They have come to us from come from across the US and the world and are pursuing a wide range of thesis projects.

Neuro at JAX Students

Student Publications

Publication is an important part of PhD training. Our first students are just beginning to publish their work.

Neuro at JAX Student Publications

Contact Information

Leon Reijmers , PhD Robert Burgess , PhD Program Directors

Robert Burgess , PhD Admissions Director

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What Jobs Can You Get With A Neuroscience Degree - A New Scientist Careers Guide

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What Jobs Can You Get With A Neuroscience Degree

What can you do with a neuroscience degree? There are dozens of areas within neuroscience , including social, behavioural, clinical, computational, developmental and cognitive neuroscience. You could specialise in any of these disciplines and become that type of neuroscientist.

Neuroscience principles can also be integral in other fields, some of which might seem quite unrelated. Popular career options for neuroscience graduates, other than academia, include medicine, clinical science , technology and engineering . 

Studying at one of the best universities for neuroscience in the UK as ranked by the Complete University Guide – a trusted league table website that considers factors such as entry requirements, student satisfaction, teaching quality and research output – could improve your chances of landing a job in a field you desire. Some great places to study include Oxford, Bath and Lancaster.

Often, neuroscience is a subject in which you can specialise during a biomedical sciences degree.

This article will highlight the top three highest-paying jobs available to those with a neuroscience degree for the following sectors: medicine, clinical science, technology and engineering, and academic research.

With a neuroscience degree, you could study medicine at an undergraduate level, or enter an accelerated postgraduate course. Although you could become any type of doctor after medical school, your background in neuroscience puts you in an excellent position to pursue specialties focusing on brain sciences. Although NHS salaries are standardised for all specialties in the UK, some offer higher private earning potential.

• Neurosurgeon

Job role: A neurosurgeon operates on the central nervous system, i.e. the brain and spinal cord, typically specialising in one or the other. It is a highly rewarding career as you treat issues such as tumours, congenital conditions and head or spinal injury, thus improving and saving lives. This also makes it a demanding job, however, as you must work nights and weekends with significant on-call commitment.

Route: Neurosurgery is an extremely competitive specialty, and you should start building your portfolio as soon as you can once you start medical school. Other than doing well academically and winning prizes, try finding a clinician who could be your mentor. They can help you publish and present papers, as well as guide you in the right direction. You should also join relevant societies and professional bodies.

After medical school, you will complete two years of foundation training, during which you can continue building your portfolio, sit relevant exams and submit your application for a specialty training post in neurosurgery, which typically lasts eight years.

Average salary (experienced): £131,964; can be doubled with private work

• Medical Doctor

Job role: Medical specialties in which your neuroscience degree would be appreciated include neurology, clinical neurophysiology and neuroradiology. A neurologist treats neurological diseases, such as Parkinson’s Disease, Alzheimer’s, epilepsy and movement disorders. 

Clinical neurophysiologists focus more on assessing function of the nervous system using technologies such as electroencephalogram (EEG), electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies. Neuroradiologists are radiologists who subspecialise in brain imaging and interpret scans obtained from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT).

Route: Although not as competitive as neurosurgery, these specialties, particularly neurology and radiology, are some of the most popular training programmes. As such, you should still try to get publications and work on your portfolio early on and join relevant societies. 

Neurology and clinical neurophysiology require you to first complete internal medicine training (IMT) after foundation, whereas radiology can be commenced straight after foundation training.

Average salary (experienced): £131,964; increased by an additional 50 per cent, 44 per cent and 43 per cent with private work in neurology, radiology and neurophysiology, respectively

• Psychiatrist

Job role: A psychiatrist is a doctor who treats mental health disorders. They can offer talking therapies and psychotherapy, as well as medication. There are several subspecialties within psychiatry.

If you wish to work with kids and young adults, you can opt for child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS). With an interest in forensic science, you could go into forensic psychiatry to investigate how mental health conditions can intersect with legal proceedings. Your neuroscience degree could be particularly useful if you wish to become a neuropsychiatrist.

Route: Psychiatry is becoming more and more competitive, and as a result you should look at portfolio requirements for specialty training early on in medical school. After foundation training, the training pathway involves core psychiatry training followed by your desired subspecialty.

Average salary (experienced): £131,964; increased by an additional 20 to 24 per cent with private work depending on subspecialty

Clinical Science

This is a broad field, encompassing dozens of career options within healthcare which don’t require a formal medical licence. In the UK, clinical science is divided into four recognised branches in which you may work: life sciences , physiological sciences, physical sciences and clinical engineering , and bioinformatics . You could also make a difference on a larger scale by applying your expertise in public health.  

• Clinical Scientist

Job role: There are over 50 specialisms you can work in as a clinical scientist , and your duties will depend on which role you chose. Working as a genetic counsellor will, for example, involve lots of direct patient contact, whereas working in biochemistry or histopathology will involve more time in a laboratory. Regardless of the field, you could do research and help design new therapies or diagnostics.

Furthermore, you could specialise in neurophysiology; this is different from clinical neurophysiology as you won’t be a medical doctor, and hence will be more involved in the technical and procedural aspect. However, you may still collaborate with clinical neurophysiologists and other allied healthcare professionals.

Route: After your neuroscience degree, you must enrol onto the NHS Scientist Training Programme (STP) and register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) to be able to work in the NHS as well as the private sector. Completion of the Higher Specialist Scientist Training (HSST) will award you with consultant status within your field.

Average salary (experienced): £69,000  

• Neuropsychologist

Job role: Psychologists apply their knowledge of the human mind and behaviour and employ their excellent communication skills to help individuals deal with mental health issues and general problems in life. You could specialise in neuropsychology which aims to further understand the complex interplay between biological , psychological and social factors.

Route: Although you normally need to complete a psychology degree accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), neuroscientists are still more than capable of becoming psychologists, especially neuropsychologists. You must first complete a psychology conversion course approved by the BPS, obtain Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) and register with the HCPC. 

After some work experience, you can complete postgraduate training in clinical neuropsychology to become a Chartered Psychologist and then undertake the BPS Qualification in Clinical Neuropsychology (QiCN).

Average salary (experienced): £57,000  

• Speech and Language Therapist

Job role: Speech and language pathologists are healthcare workers who help people with communication and swallowing difficulties. They play a crucial role in the rehabilitation of stroke and brain injury patients, as well as children with neurodevelopmental delays or eating and swallowing problems. They may also be involved in clinical research to devise new diagnostic methods and therapies.

Route: The typical route is to complete a speech and language therapy degree approved by the HCPC and the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT). Nonetheless, after your neuroscience degree, you could undertake an approved fast-track postgraduate course in speech and language therapy to start working in the NHS.

Average salary (experienced): £50,000

Technology and Engineering

Modern technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) , machine learning (ML) and neural networks are aiming to replicate the structure and function of the human brain. As such, an engineer with a solid understanding of human brain function is what many employers in this field are looking for, and your degree can give you a competitive edge.  

• AI/ML Engineer

Job role: AI and ML are newer technologies in the field of data science. These methods automate mundane and repetitive tasks, reducing the need for human input. As an AI/ML engineer, you will feed algorithms with large datasets so they can independently learn patterns and make predictions.

Route: Try to pick mathematical or computer science subjects as part of your neuroscience degree where possible; alternatively, you could learn coding and data science principles on your own online. A postgraduate qualification in data science with AI/ML is highly advisable as it is an incredibly competitive field. As you reach seniority, you could become a director, a consultant engineer or move into academia.

Average salary (experienced): £82,500

• Cyber Security Professional

Job role: Cyber security professionals investigate commercial, industrial, or political cyber crime. Their work ranges from identifying espionage and terrorist activity to securing IT software and hardware against potential hacks for businesses. You may need to work together with law enforcement and in court.

Route: As with data science, you require a good grasp of computer science and coding skills, which may be picked up in your own time or as part of your course. A postgraduate degree in cyber security is recommended to maximise your employability. With experience, you could lead your own cyber security firm, work as a senior security official for the government or become a consultant.

Average salary (experienced): £60,000  

• Robotics Engineer

Job role: Robotics engineering relies heavily on AI and ML. Engineers devise plans, build the hardware, and programme the software for self-learning machines. Testing and troubleshooting any technical difficulties also form part of their duties. These robots may be used in a variety of settings, such as healthcare , automobiles, manufacturing and for environmental purposes.

Route: Hopeful engineers normally have a degree in an engineering discipline or maths, but a neuroscientist also has great potential to excel in this field. Again, try to educate yourself on engineering and data science principles early on and undertake a postgraduate degree or internship in robotics. As you become more senior, you could take on managerial roles, move into consultancy or venture into academia.

Average salary (experienced): £54,000

Academic Research

Neuroscience is one of the most exciting and rapidly evolving disciplines in the science. Despite many recent breakthroughs, there is still much that we don’t understand about the brain, and so more cutting-edge research needs to be done. If this is an area you are interested in, you should become active in a local neuroscience institute and join the British Neuroscience Association (BNA) to learn more.

• Professor of Neuroscience

Job role: As a professor at a university, you will be lecturing the next generation on a specific subdiscipline, such as cognitive neuroscience, as well as conducting high-impact research within your niche. You will also spend time travelling, attending conferences and presenting your research.

Route: Following your neuroscience degree, you will need to complete postgraduate qualifications, ultimately leading to a PhD. Afterwards, you will work as a postdoc and get involved with quality research, lecturing and supervising students. After years of experience, you could apply for professorship and become a senior lecturer.

Average salary (experienced): £55,000; over £100,000 at some universities e.g. Oxford

• Neuropharmacologist

Job role: Pharmacologists study the effects of drugs on the human body on a molecular and physiological level; neuropharmacologists are subspecialists who focus on substances acting on the central nervous system. They help develop new drugs and test their safety and efficacy in clinical trials .

Route: A pharmacology degree is the gold standard, but neuroscience courses often include pharmacology modules that you could take. Try to gain research or industrial experience in pharmacology, and ideally complete a master’s to boost your job prospects. With experience, you could manage a pharmaceutical firm or lead clinical trials. To become an academic pharmacologist, a PhD is essential. 

Average salary (experienced): £55,000  

• Research Scientist

Job role: Research scientists plan and perform experiments within their area of expertise. They then document their results, write up papers and present their findings at conferences. Their duties also involve writing proposals and applying for grants to fund their research. With a neuroscience degree, you could work in any neuroscience or related field.

Route: After your primary degree, you could start working as a lab technician or junior scientist. You should do a master's or PhD to enhance your employability. As you become more senior, you could start conducting more independent research and work your way up to senior research fellow and lead your own team or lab. You could also obtain chartered scientist status to advance your career.

Average salary (experienced): £48,000

Neuroscience isn’t only one of the most interesting subjects to study, but also one that is highly relevant in various sectors of today’s world. You could follow the traditional route to academia and contribute to the scientific community without ever getting bored. Alternatively, you could explore the application of neuroscientific principles in human health and disease, and even in the tech sector .

• Explore careers | National Careers Service [Internet]. Available from: https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/explore-careers
• Biomedical Sciences (Neuroscience) Rankings 2024 [Internet]. The Complete University Guide. Available from: https://www.thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk/league-tables/rankings/biomedical-sciences
• Neurosurgery. Healthcareer | NHS [Internet]. Available from: https://www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/explore-roles/doctors/roles-doctors/surgery/neurosurgery
• NSHCS [Internet]. NSHCS [Internet]. Available from: https://nshcs.hee.nhs.uk/healthcare-science/healthcare-science-specialisms-explained/
• Speech and language therapist. Healthcareer | NHS [Internet]. Available from: https://www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/explore-roles/allied-health-professionals/roles-allied-health-professions/speech-and-language-therapist
• Career options in psychology | BPS [Internet]. BPS. Available from: https://www.bps.org.uk/career-options-psychology
• Institute of Analytics - The Future is Here! [Internet]. IoA - Institute of Analytics. Available from: https://ioaglobal.org/
• Cyber security careers and learning [Internet]. Available from: https://www.ukcybersecuritycouncil.org.uk/careers-and-learning/
• Student hub - The Institution of Engineering and Technology [Internet]. Available from: https://www.theiet.org/career/routes-to-engineering/student-hub/
• Academic jobs - Job Opportunities - University of Cambridge [Internet]. Available from: https://www.jobs.cam.ac.uk/job/?category=1
• Careers in pharmacology | British Pharmacological Society [Internet]. Available from: https://www.bps.ac.uk/careers
• 10 types of scientist - The Science Council ~ [Internet]. The Science Council ~. 2024. Available from: https://sciencecouncil.org/about-science/10-types-of-scientist/

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Our graduate studies programs provide the academic qualifications to enhance professional skills and boost career opportunities.

Graduate students at USF's St. Petersburg campus receive a high-quality, student-centered education at an affordable price, whether learning online or attending classes on our beautiful waterfront campus. With highly credentialed faculty and a growing campus, we offer access to cutting-edge research and valuable hands-on experiences.

Business Administration (Fully Online)

Conservation Biology

Digital Journalism and Design

Educational Leadership

Educational Studies

Elementary Education

Exceptional Student Education (Fully Online)

Liberal Arts: Florida Studies

Marine Science

Psychological Sciences

Reading Education (Fully Online)

Secondary STEM Education

CENTRAL NEUROLOGY

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