Neuroscience Scholars Program
Graduate and postdoctoral researchers have the opportunity to join this award-winning program to enhance their career and build community.
About the program
The Neuroscience Scholars Program (NSP) is a two-year online training program to support graduate students and postdoctoral researchers.
NSP participants have access to:
- Live events and webinars
- Online group for career connections
- Guidance from mentors and NSP Alumni
- Educational resources
Applications
The 2025 NSP application cycle is now closed.
Participants
NSP is comprised of two opportunities: Fellows and Associates
-
Fellows
Up to 16 applicants will be selected for the NSP Fellows Program. Highlights include:
- Two years of complimentary SfN membership
- Travel award to attend the SfN annual meeting each fall during the two-year program
- Up to $1,500 in enrichment funds to support allowed professional development activities
- A mentoring team consisting of a senior mentor and a member of the Neuroscience Scholars Program Subcommittee. The team will discuss a fellow's research, career plans, and overall experience.
-
Associates
All eligible applicants will be invited to become NSP Associates. Features of the NSP Associates Program include:
- An online group of NSP mentors and alumni for seeking career connections and guidance
- Webinars and resources that focus on career advancement issues, topics related to the research process, and cutting-edge scientific content
- An invitation to present research at the Early Career Poster Session and attend a reception at the annual meeting
Rigor and Reproducibility
NSP fellows and associates are encouraged to attend the annual Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) Short Course at the SfN Annual Meeting.
NSP Central
NSP Central is the hub for all tools and resources available to NSP participants.
Applications and Eligibility
The 2025 NSP applications are open January 15–February 19, 2025.
Selection notifications for the 2025–2027 cohort will be sent in Summer 2025.
Application Requirements
NSP applications must include:
- Resume/CV
- Adviser's biosketch
- Two-year plan (500 words)
- Professional goals statement (500 words)
- Two letters of recommendation
- Unofficial transcripts:
- Graduate students — both undergraduate- and graduate-level
- Postdoctoral researchers — graduate-level only
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must be:
- Citizens or permanent residents of the United States
- Enrolled in a graduate degree-granting program or postdoctoral fellowship
