Summary

The SPINES program offers an intensive three-week immersion in neuroscience, aimed at developing essential professional skills for aspiring researchers. This program is highly competitive and fosters a rich learning environment through mentorship from leading faculty.

  • 📚 Course Overview: SPINES offers a 3-week intensive program for professional development in neuroscience, focusing on career-building skills like grant writing, communication, and quantitative techniques.
  • 👩‍🏫 Faculty & Students: 20 leading faculty members teach 15-20 students, creating a collaborative and competitive learning environment.
  • 🎓 Program Skills: The course helps you become a top-notch principal investigator (PI), with skills for winning grants and enhancing scientific communication.
  • 💻 Neuroscience Scholars Program (NSP): You can apply to SPINES through the NSP, which provides professional development webinars and live chats with neuroscience leaders.
  • 💸 Financial Aid: Financial aid is requested in the application, with hopes for full funding (tuition/room/board), but in case of funding issues, home institutions may need to contribute.

Designation

Summer Program in Neuroscience, Excellence and Success (SPINES)

Table

DetailInformation
Program DatesJune 08, 2026 – June 29, 2026
Application Due DateMarch 09, 2026
DirectorsStephanie Correa, University of California, Los Angeles; Elva Diaz, University of California, Davis
Number of Students15-20 students
Number of Faculty20 leading faculty

Research Area

Neuroscience

Location

University of California, Los Angeles & University of California, Davis

Eligibility/Qualification

  • Must be a motivated trainee or researcher in neuroscience.
  • Applications can be submitted through the Neuroscience Scholars Program for broader professional development opportunities.
  • Financial aid information will be requested during the application process.

Description

The SPINES program is dedicated to creating and sustaining an outstanding workforce in neuroscience. Participants will acquire vital skills such as:

  • Communicating science effectively
  • Grant writing
  • Quantitative skills
  • Preparing for leadership roles in research

Students will benefit from one-on-one mentoring and training from distinguished faculty, providing them with a competitive edge in their future careers.

How to Apply

Interested applicants can apply through the Neuroscience Scholars Program online. Be sure to select the SPINES option on the application to indicate your interest in both programs without affecting your chances of acceptance.

Last Date to Apply

March 09, 2026


For more information and to apply, please visit the Neuroscience Scholars Program website.