IPN student looking through a microscope

Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience

A Ph.D. program designed to support, encourage, and stretch our students to a deeper understanding of the field of neuroscience so they are able to contribute new knowledge and original research. Through continued academic and professional formation, our students are part of the constant ongoing evolution of neuroscience.

The Georgetown Difference

Why choose Georgetown University?

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Admissions

Learn about the application process and requirements, and register for information sessions.

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Curriculum

Find the degree requirements, thesis research, and course schedules here.

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Summer 2025 Admissions

Deadline: December 1

We invite you to learn more about our program and begin your application.

Our Program

IPN has 50 Ph.D. students investigating topics ranging from glial activation, neuron signaling, and dendritic spine plasticity, to mechanisms of Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and traumatic brain injury, to systems of face recognition, word reading, and interpretation of sounds. Our Ph.D. students actively participate in organizing our program and teaching courses, and they have an excellent record of publishing manuscripts and receiving grants. Georgetown University also offers a MS in Integrative Neuroscience, providing students with a comprehensive neuroscience education.

Our faculty members are from various departments at Georgetown University and neighboring institutions. We have strong programs in neurodegeneration, examining molecular mechanisms of pathogenic processes, and cognitive neuroscience, investigating development, language, memory, social interactions, and impairments of these systems. A specific training program is available for students interested in neural injury and plasticity and translational biomedical science. It is also possible for our students to apply for a concentration in cognitive science.

Our mission is to educate our trainees to be excellent neuroscientists, lifelong learners, and responsible, active participants in the global scientific community. The success of our alumni in diverse scientific career paths gives us great pride and demonstrates their commitment to be stewards of the discipline of neuroscience while living generously in service to the community.

Andrew Speidell

Neuroscientist Receives 2024 Harold N. Glassman Distinguished Dissertation Award

IPN alumnus Andrew Speidell was honored for his dissertation research on connections between neurons and neurocognitive disorders.

News

Celine Ertekin

“For applicants, I recommend taking the time to understand your motivations and how your experiences have influenced your research interests and career goals.”…

September 30th, 2024

Sofia Montoya

“Take some time to reflect. I was asked a lot why I wanted to pursue a doctoral program and at times I even questioned it myself… It’s all about telling your story.”…

September 30th, 2024

Christy Agbey

Christy Agbey received the 2024 (F31) NCI Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award.…

September 26th, 2024

BGE Faculty Selected for Toulmin Pilot Projects

A GUMC panel chose faculty from several BGE programs to receive funding for their research in 2025 through the Toulmin Pilot Projects.…

September 16th, 2024