Neuroscience

Combat neurological disease through research

Join Tufts’ close-knit PhD program, receive one-on-one mentorship, and drive breakthroughs from molecules to brain systems.

Request Information

Combat neurological disease through research

Join Tufts’ close-knit PhD program, receive one-on-one mentorship, and drive breakthroughs from molecules to brain systems.

Request Information
Program StartLengthFundingStipend
Program Start

SEPTEMBER

Length

5.5-6 YEARS 

on average

Funding

FULL TUITION

Stipend

$43,000

2024-2025

Launch Your Neuroscience Career

The Tufts PhD in Neuroscience offers rigorous, hands-on training in a collaborative, supportive environment. Students explore the nervous system from molecules to behavior, with strengths in synaptic function, glia-neuron interactions, and systems neuroscience. The program emphasizes individualized training, one-on-one mentorship, and interdisciplinary research, including opportunities through our Neuro at JAX partnership with The Jackson Laboratory. Those not yet ready for a PhD can apply to the MS in Biomedical Research with a neuroscience focus.

View Program Guide
PhD student poses with elbow on desk at lab
Faculty member has conversation with PhD student in a lab

A Curriculum Built for Impact

Our research-centered curriculum provides comprehensive, hands-on preparation for a successful research career across academia, industry, and science policy. Through coursework, faculty-led tutorials, journal clubs, and seminars, students develop scientific rigor, critical thinking, and communication skills. From experimental design to data analysis, the program equips students to make meaningful scientific contributions throughout their careers.

Neuro Curriculum

Technique-Focused from Day One

Early and comprehensive training in experimental techniques and data analysis is a cornerstone of the Tufts Neuroscience PhD experience. Our dedicated techniques course, developed with the Center for Neuroscience Research (CNR) and supported by state-of-the-art facilities, enables students to master modern neuroscience tools—accelerating their lab progress and sharpening their edge for future postdoctoral or industry roles.

Learn About CNR
hand placing something under microscope
advisor and student discussing research

Mentorship-Driven Training in a Collaborative Neuroscience Community

At Tufts, students build lasting mentorship relationships through one-on-one guidance and individualized training plans tailored to their scientific interests and career goals. Our close-knit, supportive community fosters collaboration over competition, encouraging open idea exchange and diverse perspectives. This mentorship-first culture prepares students to excel as scientists and valued colleagues within a dynamic, interdisciplinary environment.

Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Research & Expert Faculty

The Tufts Neuroscience PhD program integrates expertise from the Schools of Medicine, Arts & Sciences, and Veterinary Medicine. Students access diverse faculty, including adjunct faculty, spanning molecular to systems neuroscience, with broad research resources and collaborative opportunities. Through our Neuro at JAX partnership, students also train with experts at The Jackson Laboratory in Maine—preparing them for successful careers in academia, biotech, and beyond.

Neuroscience Labs & Research
Student with glasses sits in audience at seminar
Female student presenting research poster

Real Research, Real Results

Our students publish in leading journals, present at national conferences, and collaborate across labs. With strong support from faculty and peers, students conduct groundbreaking thesis projects in areas such as synapse biology, glial function, neural development, and systems neuroscience. Over 90% of our graduates complete their PhDs and go on to successful careers in academia, biotech, pharma, government, and science communication.

Career Outcomes & Graduation Statistics

Neuro @ JAX: Expand Your Training at a World-Renowned Research Institute

The Neuro at JAX track offers a unique opportunity to train at The Jackson Laboratory in Bar Harbor, Maine—a world leader in genetics and neuroscience research. Students in this track complete all requirements for a Tufts PhD while conducting research at JAX, gaining access to a second network of distinguished faculty, advanced tools, and high-impact projects.

Neuro @ JAX Info
High Seas at Jackson Labs
Female PhD student poses leaning on desk at GSBS lab

Apply Now to Join Tufts Neuroscience PhD Program

Prospective students apply through the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (GSBS) online application system. A strong background in cellular and molecular biology, biochemistry, and neuroscience is recommended. Be sure to indicate your interest in the Neuro at JAX track on your application to access unique training opportunities.

Admissions Information

Program Highlights

Neuro BDBS at the Relays

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

We are deeply committed to building a diverse and inclusive scientific community. Students actively participate in department-wide DEI initiatives that promote equity, representation, and antiracism across all aspects of academic and research life.

neuroscience retreat

Annual Neuroscience Retreat

Each year, our students, faculty, and staff gather for the Neuroscience Retreat—an energizing event that fosters scientific exchange, community building, and professional development in a relaxed, collegial setting.

neuroscience lab

Access to Specialized Research Facilities

Our students have access to advanced equipment and shared research spaces to support their experimental work. Use of these resources is managed through a simple reservation system, ensuring availability and efficiency for all trainees.

Meet Our Students

neuroscience student

Our students come from across the US and the world and are pursuing a wide range of thesis projects.

Neuroscience Students

Student Publications

brain image

Publication of research is a key part of training and our students publish their work in excellent journals.

Neuroscience Student Publications

Program Outcomes

students at graduation

Over 90% of our students complete an advanced degree and go on to pursue a wide range of careers.

Neuroscience Graduation Stats & Career Outcomes

Contact Information

Leon Reijmers, PhD
Program Director

Rob Jackson, PhD
Admissions Director

Shelley Scheier
Program Coordinator

Request Information

Loading...