The Building Research Aspirations in Neurology (BRAIN) program in the Department of Neurology at NYU Langone is an intensive, hands-on research experience for undergraduate students. The program supports the development of future clinician–scientists in neurology and consists of a 10-week intensive summer program followed by a 1-year research commitment.

The program curriculum is led by our faculty, who are part of the No. 1 neurology and neurosurgery program in the nation, as ranked by U.S. News and World Report’s “Best Hospitals.” Students are paired with a department faculty mentor to work with on research projects throughout the summer and into the academic year.

The first two weeks of the course focus on training in institutional review board (IRB) procedure, informed consent, and responsible conduct of research. The rest of the summer is dedicated to conducting research in mentor laboratories. Students have the opportunity to network with program alumni and attend various annual scientific meetings.

Compensation

All students enrolled in the program receive $5,500 upon completion of the 10-week intensive summer portion of the program and $3,000 during the academic year for working with their mentor.

Program Benefits

The BRAIN program offers participants the following benefits:

• individualized and small group mentored research projects with clinical neurology and neuroscience faculty
• formal training in research design and methodology, with an emphasis on patient-centered and health disparities research
• learning to write and present scientific results, including a presentation at NYU Langone’s Annual Neurology Research Symposium
• career advising and professional development (e.g., meeting the associate dean of admissions at NYU Grossman School of Medicine)
• observing Neurology Residency training
• informal mentoring sessions with neurology residents and faculty to learn about life as a neurologist
• exposure to life as a medical student, including an observed standardized clinical exam, seminars, and case conferences
• active participation in community initiatives on educating the public about neurologic conditions

We also offer several opportunities for social interaction, including physician–scientist brown bag lunches, activities to build community and networks among BRAIN participants, underrepresented minority students in neuroscience research, and other NYU Grossman School of Medicine summer program undergraduates.

How to Apply

Undergraduate students in the New York City area with an interest in neurology and neuroscience are encouraged to apply to the BRAIN program. We give priority to applications from undergraduate students who are typically underrepresented in clinical neurology, including those identifying as an underrepresented minority, being a first-generation undergraduate student, or identifying as an individual with a disability.

Please note, we require applicants to be a current undergraduate student (please do not apply if you are graduating this spring) and to have a minimum GPA of 3.30.

The application deadline is January 16, 2024. Interviews and offers of acceptance are completed before spring. If you are interested in participating in the BRAIN program, please complete this application.