Neuroscience PhD training has been a component of graduate training at Wake Forest University since 1991. The goal of our Neuroscience training program is to provide students with:

  • A fundamental understanding of all levels of nervous system organization, from genetics to molecular and cellular mechanisms to systems and behavioral neuroscience
  • Hands-on research training in state-of-art laboratories that carry out meaningful and significant research in all areas of modern neuroscience
  • A skill set that includes extensive training in experimental design and interpretation, as well as statistical analysis and quantitative methodology
  • A “bench to bedside” appreciation of how basic neuroscience research supports and translates into treatments for neurobehavioral pathologies
  • A program to develop a well-rounded scientist, including training in written and oral scientific communication, grant writing, outreach and advocacy and responsible conduct of research

Why Wake Forest

In order to achieve these goals, the program’s first two years balance a broad, interdisciplinary curriculum with hands-on training in research laboratories that use a variety of cutting-edge techniques. With this foundation, students move forward to develop a dissertation project in a specific neuroscience subdiscipline such as memory and cognition, substance use disorders and motivated behaviors, sensory processing and integration, or nervous system changes following injury or in disease. Our program’s success is facilitated by a robust advisory structure for student guidance and mentorship, and an outstanding collaborative environment maintained by our diverse faculty.

Outcomes for PhD students over the past 10 years

  • 91 students matriculated into our PhD program. 
  • 50% of our eligible students were supported on a T32 and/or obtained individual funding (3 F99/K00; 1 R36; 15 NRSA).  In addition, our students regularly win personal awards from a variety of non-profit, scientific, and industry sources. Our students are highly valued and recognized nationally and internationally even before graduation. 
  • Average time to PhD: 5.3 years
  • Average publications: 4 (2 as first author)
  • 97% of students who earned PhDs obtained postdoctoral training positions or are employed in research-intensive positions. 72% moved onto postdoctoral positions (e.g., Chicago, Vanderbilt, Duke, UNC-Chapel Hill, Northwestern).  The vast majority of students had positions arranged prior to defense of their dissertation.