Neuroscience (Hons) University College Dublin

Overview

The Neuroscience (Hons) degree is offered by University College Dublin. Neuroscience is the study of the nervous system, directed towards understanding how cells within the nervous system interact with each other to form the brain and regulate body functions, human behaviour, memory, emotions and consciousness. The malfunction of the nervous system lies at the heart of a number of devastating and currently incurable conditions such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Neuroscience research probes the mechanisms underlying such malfunctions with a view to helping in the discovery of drugs to prevent or manage these disorders.

Professional Work Experience

A limited number of opportunities exist in second and third year to gain additional laboratory experience during the summer. Funded schemes are organised by public and private bodies, e.g. the Irish Health Research Board and The Wellcome Trust (UK). In addition, occasional opportunities arise within individual research groups.

Career

As a Neuroscience graduate you’ll have the opportunity to obtain employment in:

• Biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies
• Medical research including drug development and clinical trials
• Hospital and university laboratories
• Neuroscience research institutes
• Government agencies

Neuroscience graduates also pursue graduate studies at MSc or PhD level. PhD programmes in Ireland and abroad cover areas as diverse as biotechnology, cell biology, and biomedical and health science. Many graduates also pursue graduate medicine and graduate pharmacy courses.

International Study Opportunities

A limited number of fourth year projects are available in the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of the University of Copenhagen, Denmark.