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Ph.D. Programs in Neuroscience
Students interested in Neuroscience have the option of pursuing one of several degree paths, depending upon background, experience, and interests. These programs and their faculty are highly interrelated and maintain close interaction such that all students interested in the structure and function of the nervous system can find the best match for their own training needs within our community.
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Neuroscience training within the Interdepartmental Graduate Program in Neuroscience provides broad training in neuroscience followed by advanced, specialized coursework relevant to individual interests. Cell structure and anatomy, molecular biology, neurochemistry, neuropharmacology, and electrophysiology are studied in the context of neuronal signaling and transduction, neurotransmission, neuronal development, aging, and neurpathology. The structure and function of neuronal systems are also examined as they relate to behavior, sensation and perception, cognition, and homeostasis. Faculty research interests focus on five areas: Development and Aging; Neurobiology of Disease; Learning Memory, and Plasticity; Cell Signaling and Communication; Sensory, Motor, and Integrative Neurobiology. |
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Neuroscience training through the Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences emphasizes the study of neural mechanisms underlying complex cognitive processes (perception, motor planning, learning and memory, and language processing and acquisition). The curriculum reflects the department's emphasis on combining neurobiological, behavioral, and computational approaches to understanding cognitive processes. Faculty research interests focus on three main areas: Learning and Developmental Plasticity; Sensation and Perception; and Language and Cognition. |
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Another option combines the core neuroscience curriculum with the first year medical school course, Human Structure and Function, leading to a Ph.D. in Neurobiology and Anatomy. Additional electives from the medical school curriculum fulfill remaining requirements, making this option particularly well suited to those interested in training towards a combined MD and Ph.D. |
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Students with backgrounds or interests in the physical sciences or engineering should consider the graduate program in Biomedical Engineering, which contains a focus in neuroscience (neuro-engineering) as one of its training paths. Areas of particular research emphasis include sensori-motor control and integration, and advanced sensory technologies and therapeutics. The curriculum emphasizes engineering principles, quantitative and theoretical approaches to biological systems, and their specific applications to the nervous system. |