Department of Neuroscience

The Center for Neuroscience (CNUP) Training program is an interschool PhD degree-granting program offered cooperatively by the School of Arts and Sciences (Neuroscience, NROSCI) and the School of Medicine (Neurobiology, MSNBIO). The program introduces students to the fundamental issues and experimental approaches in neuroscience and trains them in the theory and practice of laboratory research. Research interests of the training faculty focus on several prominent themes, including behavioral/systems/cognitive, cell and molecular, development/plasticity/repair, and the neurobiology of disease.

We are highly invested in enhancing diversity, which is expressed in multiple forms - race, ethnicity, gender and gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, language, culture, national origin, religious commitments, age, (dis)ability status and political perspective. In addition, we strive to create a community that is equitable, so that all persons have equal opportunity, and inclusive, so that everyone feels welcomed. We hope you share our values and goals.

This large research-based training program offers outstanding opportunities for students to pursue research in laboratories within more than 30 different departments and University centers. Major features of the program include extensive collaborative interactions among its faculty members and its affiliation with Auditory Neuroscience, the Brain Institute, the Center for the Neural Basis of Cognition (a joint program with Carnegie Mellon University), Conte Center for Translational Mental Health Research, Pittsburgh Hearing Research Center, Pittsburgh Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Pittsburgh Center for Pain Research, and other on-campus research centers.

Training is also available for a master’s degree through the Department of Neuroscience in the Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences. It is important to note that this is a departmental program rather than a component of CNUP. Thus, training is only available with faculty with primary or secondary appointments in the Department of Neuroscience. Applicants must also arrange for a faculty sponsor before their application will be considered. A more detailed explanation of the program requirements is available on the Department of Neuroscience Web site at http://neuroscience.pitt.edu/programs/masters-program

Contact Information

Center for Neuroscience
A210 Langley Hall
412-383-7582
E-mail: argenzio@pitt.edu
https://www.cnup.pitt.edu/phd-program-training/prospective-students

Admission Requirements and Procedures

Students are admitted into the CNUP training program on the assumption that they will be able to meet all requirements for the PhD degree. Those that are selected show evidence of a high level of intellectual talent, a strong interest in neuroscience, and a commitment to scholarship and research.

Admission decisions are based on many factors including the candidate’s statement of interest and goals in the field of neuroscience, evidence of research experience and accomplishment, letters of recommendation, grades, and personal interviews. An outstanding record in one of these areas may compensate for poorer performance in another area. In general, successful applicants have a BS degree in biology, chemistry, computer science, mathematics, neuroscience, or psychology with a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.40 (on a 4.00 scale).

Success in scientific research requires personal qualities not measured by tests - attributes such as curiosity, creativity, adaptability, self-motivation, passion for research, conscientiousness, persistence, self-organization, grit, resilience, and integrity, just to name a few. Select elect one or two traits you feel are your greatest strengths and provide an example from your life experience that illustrate each trait.

Additional information and a link to our on-line application can be found at: https://www.cnup.pitt.edu/phd-program-training/prospective-students

Financial Assistance

All students receive full stipend support and individual health benefits. This support is derived from University fellowships and numerous grants funded by the federal government and private agencies. Students in the program also have access to sponsorship on NIH training grants.

Programs

Doctoral

Neuroscience, PhD

Master’s

Neuroscience, MS

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