There are four things to consider when looking for the best neuroscience department: appropriate focus, small class size, research opportunities, and support staff. A neuroscience department can be found in a wide range of universities, community and career colleges. Neuroscience is the study of the nervous system. The topics included in this field include structure, development, genetics, and pathology.
Neuroscience is a growing field, with research departments available in most top research universities. There are two types of neuroscience departments available: research and teaching. The research programs are typically funded by government and outside granting agencies, providing opportunities to conduct research into specific functions or topics. These research projects are typically multiyear and involve a wide range of specialists, ranging from neuroscientists to biologists.
Teaching departments focus on providing instruction at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Sharing of knowledge, development of research skills, and providing support for other institutes is the primary focus of these types of departments. As most graduate programs are heavily research focused, these programs are often limited to the undergraduate level.
A neuroscience department teaches a combination of theory and practical skills. The lower the number of students in the class, the more individual attention the instructor can provide to each student. Take the time to ask questions, and gain as much knowledge as possible. The best neuroscience department includes access to laboratory equipment and the ability to conduct experiments.
Research opportunities are critical to the best neuroscience department. When comparing departments, look at the number of grants awarded in the past two years, the total number of applications, and the number of consecutive research projects under way. Look at the breadth of topics in the published research, areas of specialization, and the quality of the work produced.
Support staff is critical when looking for the best neuroscience department. Department administrators, research accountants, development staff, and other support personal are critical to the success of any department within a research institution. The amount of staff available is an indication of the size, success, and support of the department within the institution.
All research academic institutions require support staff who are dedicated to identifying and new research funding opportunities. Grants and research funding is available from a wide range of national, international, commercial, charitable, and government-funded agencies and associations. The application requirements, time lines, areas of focus, and amount of funding vary widely. Research is a very competitive industry and provides the funding necessary to advance the study of neuroscience.