User:Brynnblackwood/sandbox

Brynn Blackwood for CCT110

A neuroscientist (sometimes also called a neurobiologist) is an individual who studies the structure and function of the brain and nervous system, and who is an expert in the field of neuroscience or any of its related sub-fields. Neuroscientists conduct theoretical research using computer simulations, conduct laboratory experiments on tissue samples, oversee clinical tests and trials, and write scientific papers. A neuroscientist has completed extensive educational and training requirements regarding brain anatomy, cognition, and neurology. A neuroscientist applies their knowledge of psychology and biology to analyze the structure, function, and development of brain nerves and neurotransmitters. Neuroscience (neurobiology) as a distinct discipline separate from anatomy, neurology, physiology, psychology, or psychiatry is fairly recent, aided in large part by the advent of newer, faster computing methods and neuroimaging techniques.

These scientists generally work as researchers within a college, university, government agency, or private industry setting.

Job Duties
Neuroscientists often collaborate with one another to conduct studies that frequently require the use of computers, computer programs and laboratory equipment. They work together to design and organize research projects, publish research in scientific journals, and recruit volunteer test subjects. They perform magnetic resonance imaging and positron emission tomography on their test subjects. Neuroscientists publish their findings in scientific journals and textbooks.

Training and Education
A neuroscientist is usually required to earn a PhD and complete postdoctoral training in a branch of neuropsychology and have taken classes in statistics, psychology, and life science classes. Most neuroscientists complete a bachelor's program in biology, chemistry, or psychology, and a doctoral program in cognitive, biological, or molecular neuroscience. ] Graduates usually pursue postdoctoral fellowships at universities, private research institutions, or pharmaceutical companies, where they work alongside experienced professionals for up to two years before conducting independent research. Many colleges and universities now have a neuroscience program due to the expansion of interest in neurobiology. Often the neuroscience program exists within the psychology, molecular and cell biology, or other biology department. There are now many schools that offer PhDs in neuroscience and/or neurobiology.