The Society for Neuroscience created the Neuroscience Scholars Program (NSP) to provide training and mentorship to underrepresented graduate students and postdoctoral researchers. It is comprised of two opportunities: NSP Fellows and NSP Associates. 

I applied to be an NSP fellow in 2021 and received the fellowship for 2022-2024. As a fellow, I receive the following resources and support:

• Two year complimentary membership to SfN

• Travel award to attend the SfN annual meeting each fall during the 2-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. 

For more information, please visit the NSP website. 

I returned to Brandeis University after graduation with my first experience coming during a summer research internship in 2016. In my humble opinion, I believe Brandeis offers a rigorous academic curriculum to prepare individuals for any career in science. I initally applied to Brandeis as an MS/MBA student in Biotechnology and Healthcare Management before I transitioned into the PhD Program in Neuroscience. 

I started my MS/MBA at Brandeis University during the fall of 2018 and transitioned to the PhD program in the summer of 2019. I have happily served on the Ph.D. admissions committee and have helped recruit a handful of students to the MS in Biotechnology program. 

If you have any questions please ask!!

I cannot recommend the SMDP program enough for those individuals considering/committing to a career in industry. I was selected as part of the 2023-2024 cohort and learned so much through this program. I am sharing my personal narrative as a guide for those that are considering applying! If you have questions feel free to reach out!

What is SMDP?  (learn more by clicking here!)

The one year career mentoring program pairs ethnically diverse students (Undergraduate Juniors & Seniors, Baccalaureate, Master or Ph.D. & Post-doc) and early career researchers with industry mentors who work at companies in the medical technology, biotechnology and consumer healthcare industries. With their mentors, Scholars attend a 5-day training session to learn about career opportunities in industry and receive career development coaching. They also attend a major industry conference.

Who may apply?
Undergraduate Juniors & Seniors, Baccalaureate, graduate, Ph.D. students or Post-Doctoral researchers from racial and ethnic groups (Hispanic Americans, Pacific Islanders, African Americans and Native Americans), underrepresented in the medical technology, biotechnology and consumer healthcare workforce.   

Applicants must be eligible to work permanently in the United States without needing a visa or sponsorship.

The program application form lists the disciplines and skills we seek for each sector. 

How do SMDP Scholars receive mentoring?
With their mentors, SMDP Scholars develop a Personalized Mentoring Plan which includes goals and action items designed to prepare the SMDP Scholars for careers in the medical technology, biotechnology or consumer healthcare industries.

Mentor-mentee teams carry out their mentoring plans for a year following the SMDP training session. They communicate monthly once a month by phone, email and virtually, aided by ICPD staff and the SMDP Mentoring Portal, a web-based tool that supports mentor-mentee collaboration and communication.

How do I apply?

• Complete the online SMDP application form.

• Submit your resume and two letters of recommendation: one from a major instructor and one from your faculty advisor or a suitable substitute.

• Submit a 2-page personal narrative describing how you think SMDP will enhance your education and professional development. Also include your long-term career goals, academic goals, and research focus. Lastly, discuss how an industry mentor will impact your career and what you expect to gain.

How is SMDP publicized and how are applicants invited?
The International Center for Professional Development (ICPD) distributes information about the program through its websites and sends emails directly to universities and academic institutions across the United States and Puerto Rico. The SMDP Scholars Alumni have also become a large source for word of mouth referrals.

How are SMDP Scholars selected?
Scholar selection for each program is carried out by a committee of representatives from industry. Applicants are evaluated based on predetermined criteria. The committee's recommendations are compiled and a summary report is used to determine the final selection participants.

When will I be notified of my selection status?
Applicants will be informed of their selection status within 30 days after the application deadline.