What Jobs Can I Do With a Neuroscience Degree?
Seth Taube
On 20 March 2023

There are a wide variety of jobs available to neuroscience. Some are more lucrative than others, but all of them provide the satisfaction that comes from positively impacting society.
To be a neuroscientist, you must complete at least a master’smaster’s degree in neuroscience and then a doctorate (Ph.D.). After you graduate, you can work as a research scientist or a teacher at an academic or private school.
Neurosurgeon
Neurosurgeons treat a wide variety of medical issues that involve the brain and spine. This includes trauma and degenerative diseases.
They use a variety of advanced technology to diagnose and treat these conditions. This includes computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans.
Neuroscientist
If you’re interested in researching how the brain works, a career as a neuroscientist may be right for you. This field explores many aspects of the nervous system, including cellular, functional, behavioral, evolutionary, and computational sciences.
Neuroscientists typically work in laboratories, conducting research that can lead to new medications or treatments for neurological disorders. They also interact with patients in clinical settings and teach at universities.
Psychiatrist
A psychiatric doctor examines patients to identify mental illnesses and treat them with medication, counseling, and behavioral therapy. This job requires a medical degree and further education through residency programs and fellowships that can last up to seven years after graduation.
Psychiatrists must understand how the brain works and how it develops. This knowledge can help them provide the best care possible for their patients.
Neurophysiologist
A neurophysiologist studies the brain, nerves, spinal cord, and muscles to diagnose and treat neurological disorders. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals and clinics.
This career is challenging but also rewarding. It requires a high level of intelligence and empathy.
Neuroradiologist
A neuroradiologist uses x-rays, CT scans, and MRIs to assess a patient’spatient’s brain, spine, and neck. They then interpret the results of these tests to help diagnose and treat various neurological disorders.
After completing medical school, neuroradiologists complete residency and fellowship programs to gain clinical experience and specialized skills in their specialty area. They must also pass a board certification exam and meet continuing education requirements yearly.
Neuropsychologist
Neuropsychologists study the brain and its effects on behavior. They often conduct research in an academic setting, or they may teach courses on the subject at a university.
Neuropsychologists evaluate various conditions and disorders, including neurological injuries, movement disorders like Parkinson’sParkinson’s disease or stroke, or psychological conditions. They use behavioral management strategies to help people cope with these symptoms and improve their cognitive abilities.
Neurochemist
Various neuroscience-related career options include research, clinical work, and academic positions. However, some more traditional neuroscience jobs require you to attend graduate school for an advanced degree.
Luckily, there are some neuroscience-related careers that you can begin right after high school. These include internships, job shadowing, and research opportunities.
Biochemist
With a neuroscience degree, you’ll have a strong understanding of how the brain works. You’llYou’ll also gain critical thinking skills, which can be beneficial in various careers.
Biochemists study cellular and molecular processes to increase our understanding of them. They may be tasked with solving specific problems, like figuring out how a chemical found in some plastics can cause diseases. They also research ways to modify crops to resist drought or pests genetically.
Biophysicist
Biophysicists use physics to study biological systems and processes. Students work with biology, chemistry, and medical researchers to develop new ways to understand complex biological activities.
Student research a variety of cellular activities, including how cells communicate with one another and how they respond to their environment. They also focus on cellular structures such as proteins and DNA.
Neuroanatomist
If you’re interested in studying the nervous system, a degree in neuroscience can open several career options. These include research, teaching, and clinical work.
Neuroscience is a broad field that borrows principles from biology, biochemistry, physics, physiology, and psychology. Some specialty areas also include computational, developmental, and cultural neuroscience.