Advancing neuroscience for the benefit of all

Message from the Chair:

“The Department of Neuroscience strives to support an environment of equality, respect, and fairness for all. We recognize that it is crucial to foster a thriving, innovative, and socially responsible academic environment that works to support biomedical research that benefits all populations in our community, state, and nation. We value the unique perspectives and contributions of individuals from all backgrounds and identities, and we are fully committed to eradicating barriers, enhancing opportunities, and advancing neuroscience research to the benefit of everyone. Our ultimate goal is to provide health and research equity to all communities and support cultural understanding.

We believe that talented scientists come from all backgrounds and communities, but that a lack of access to resources and opportunities can limit the realization of one’s full potential. At a medical university, our department endeavors to support health equity by providing opportunities and access to individuals from medically underserved and rural communities, socioeconomically disadvantaged households, and first-generation college students and graduates. By implementing programs, practices, and transparency, we create a welcoming community, advance scientific excellence, and support our most valuable asset — our students, postdocs, faculty, and staff.“

-Christopher W. Cowan, Ph.D.

Neuroscience Department Task Force (NDTF):

The mission of our task force, currently co-Chaired by Drs. Antonieta Lavin and Patrick Mulholland, is to help advance the equality, respect, and fairness goals of our department. The task force comprises volunteer representatives from across the entire department to ensure that broad perspectives and experiences are included in formative and summative assessments of our initiatives and departmental progress. It also develops and implements programs that provide education and training opportunities for our faculty, students, and staff to support and promote opportunities to enhance a culture of respect and equality.

NDTF Programs and Departmental Initiatives:

Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP): R25 DA033680

MUSC Internship in Neuroscience for Distinguished Scholars (MINDS) Program – contact Dr. Jennifer Rinker or Dr. Jim Otis, for more information.

Safe Zone Allies and Training 

Neuroscience Scholars Program – supports recruitment and career development of faculty underrepresented in biomedical research

 

Outreach Program with South Carolina’s HBCUs

Also, see College of Graduate Studies’ Post-Baccalaureate Research Education Program