jobs after phd in neuroscience

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10 Of The Best Careers In Neuroscience [2024]

Table Of Contents

Quickstart guide to landing a career in neuroscience, 10 of the best careers in neuroscience, 1. neurologist, 2. neuropsychologist, 3. neuroscience researcher, 4. neuroscience nurse, 5. neuropharmacologist, 6. clinical neurophysiologist, 7. psychiatrist, 8. neuroscience sales representative, 9. neuroinformatics specialist, 10. neurobiologist, requirements and skills to find a good-paying job in neuroscience, educational requirements, best places to find a career in neuroscience, job posting sites, professional associations, university career services, industry conferences and networking events, research institutions and university job boards, the bottom line.

Starting a career in neuroscience? You're looking at an exciting world where understanding the brain and nervous system isn't just about job titles. It's about making a real difference in how we understand ourselves, treat brain-related illnesses, and improve mental health.

Whether you're thinking about switching careers to something more meaningful or just starting out and drawn to the idea of contributing to important discoveries, there's a place for you in neuroscience. This field has everything from hands-on research and clinical work to cutting-edge tech jobs.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the different career options available, helping you find the perfect fit for your interests and skills. Ready to see how your curiosity about the brain can turn into a rewarding career? Let's dive in.

• Polish your resume. Before diving into the job market, give your resume a makeover. Consider using a resume writing service to ensure your skills and experiences shine.
• Connect with a like-minded community. Join The UnBREAKable Community to network with individuals who share your career aspirations and can offer support and advice.
• Search for jobs on ZipRecruiter. Utilize job posting sites like ZipRecruiter to find the latest opportunities in neuroscience. It's a great way to see what's out there and apply to roles that match your interest and expertise.

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Median National Salary: $347,714/year

Education Required:  Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), followed by a residency in neurology

Job Duties:  A neurologist is responsible for diagnosing and treating disorders of the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. They use their expertise in neurology, diagnostic testing, and treatment modalities to provide specialized care for patients with neurological conditions, such as epilepsy, stroke, and multiple sclerosis.

Median National Salary: $111,325/year

Education Required:  Doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in psychology with a specialization in neuropsychology

Job Duties:  A neuropsychologist is responsible for assessing and treating cognitive, emotional, and behavioral issues related to brain dysfunction or injury. They use their expertise in neuropsychological assessment, rehabilitation, and counseling to help individuals with neurological conditions, such as traumatic brain injury or dementia, to improve their cognitive and emotional functioning.

Median National Salary: $58,746/year

Education Required:  PhD in neuroscience or a related field

Job Duties:  A neuroscience researcher is responsible for conducting experiments, analyzing data, and publishing findings to advance understanding of the brain and nervous system. They use their expertise in neuroscience, experimental design, and data analysis to contribute to scientific knowledge and potentially develop treatments for neurological disorders.

Median National Salary: $55,338/year

Education Required:  Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and certification in neuroscience nursing

Job Duties:  A neuroscience nurse is responsible for providing specialized care to patients with neurological conditions, such as stroke, head injuries, or brain tumors. They use their expertise in neurology, patient assessment, and symptom management to deliver comprehensive care, educate patients and families, and support rehabilitation efforts for individuals with neurological health issues.

Median National Salary: $54,791/year

Education Required:  PhD in pharmacology or related field with a focus on neuropharmacology

Job Duties:  A neuropharmacologist is responsible for studying the effects of drugs on the nervous system and developing medications to treat neurological disorders. They use their expertise in pharmacology, neuroscience, and drug development to conduct research, identify potential therapeutic compounds, and contribute to the advancement of treatments for conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and epilepsy.

Median National Salary: $72,002/year

Education Required: MD or DO with specialized training in neurophysiology

Job Duties:  A clinical neurophysiologist is responsible for diagnosing and monitoring neurological disorders by performing and interpreting tests such as EEGs (electroencephalograms) and EMGs (electromyograms). They use their expertise in neurophysiology, medical testing, and patient care to assess brain and nerve function, aid in the diagnosis of conditions like epilepsy and peripheral nerve disorders, and contribute to treatment planning for patients with neurological issues.

Median National Salary: $259,497/year

Education Required:  Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) with a residency in psychiatry

Job Duties:  A psychiatrist is responsible for diagnosing, treating, and providing care for individuals with mental health disorders. They use their expertise in psychiatry, psychotherapy, and medication management to assess patients, develop treatment plans, and provide support for conditions such as depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia.

Median National Salary: $52,784/year

Education Required:  Bachelor's degree

Job Duties:  A neuroscience sales representative is responsible for promoting and selling pharmaceutical products or medical devices related to neurological conditions to healthcare professionals. They use their expertise in sales, product knowledge, and customer relationship management to educate healthcare providers, build relationships, and drive sales to support the treatment of neurological disorders.

Median National Salary: $114,249/year

Education Required:  Master's or PhD in neuroscience, computer science, or related field

Job Duties:  A neuroinformatics specialist is responsible for managing and analyzing complex neuroscience data, such as brain imaging and genetic information, to support research and clinical applications. They use their expertise in data management, bioinformatics, and neuroscience to develop tools, algorithms, and databases that enable researchers and clinicians to extract valuable insights from large-scale neurological data sets.

Median National Salary: $93,442/year

Education Required:  PhD in neurobiology or a closely related field

Job Duties:  A neurobiologist is responsible for studying the nervous system and its functions, conducting research to understand brain development, neural circuits, and neurological disorders. They use their expertise in biology, neuroscience, and laboratory techniques to investigate the structure and function of the nervous system, contributing to advancements in our understanding of brain function and potential treatments for neurological conditions.

• Undergraduate Degree: Most careers in neuroscience begin with a bachelor's degree in neuroscience, biology, psychology, or a related field. This foundational education introduces students to the basics of brain science and prepares them for advanced study.
• Graduate Education: For many positions, especially in research, academia, or specialized clinical roles, a master's or doctoral degree (PhD) in neuroscience or a related discipline is essential. Medical doctors (MDs) interested in neurology or psychiatry will need to complete medical school followed by residency and possibly fellowship training in their specialty.
• Analytical Skills: The ability to analyze complex data sets, understand scientific literature, and design experiments is crucial in neuroscience. Researchers and clinicians alike must be able to draw meaningful conclusions from their observations and studies.
• Technical Proficiency: Depending on the role, technical skills can range from proficiency in laboratory techniques (like microscopy or electrophysiology) to advanced computing skills for data analysis and modeling in neuroinformatics.
• Communication Skills: Clear and effective communication is vital, whether it's writing research papers, presenting findings, or explaining complex neurological conditions to patients and their families.
• Problem-Solving Ability: Neuroscience professionals often face challenging and sometimes unprecedented problems. The ability to think critically and creatively to solve these problems is key.
• Attention to Detail: Whether conducting experiments, diagnosing patients, or analyzing data, attention to detail is essential for accuracy and success in neuroscience careers.
• Empathy and Patience: For those working directly with patients, such as neurologists, psychiatrists, and neuroscience nurses, empathy and patience are crucial in providing compassionate care and support.

Job posting sites, like ZipRecruiter, are a great starting point for finding neuroscience positions. These platforms aggregate listings from various sectors, including academia, healthcare, and biotechnology, making it easier to find opportunities that match your qualifications and interests. They often feature advanced search filters, allowing you to narrow down your search by location, job type, and experience level. This broad access and customization make job posting sites an indispensable tool in your job search arsenal.

For more information, check out our ZipRecruiter review .

Professional associations in neuroscience and related fields often have career centers or job boards where members can find specialized openings. These associations are tailored to professionals in the field, meaning the jobs listed are highly relevant and cater to a wide range of experience levels, from entry-level to senior positions. Additionally, membership in these organizations can provide networking opportunities, access to industry news, and resources for professional development, further supporting your career growth.

For students and recent graduates, university career services are a valuable resource for finding jobs in neuroscience. These services may offer access to job postings not widely available elsewhere, as well as internship and fellowship opportunities that can lead to full-time positions. Career advisors can also provide personalized guidance on resume writing, interview preparation, and career planning, helping you to effectively market yourself for neuroscience roles.

Attending industry conferences and networking events is another great option for uncovering job opportunities in neuroscience. These events bring together professionals from across the field, from researchers and clinicians to educators and industry representatives. Networking at these events can lead to valuable connections, insider knowledge about open positions, and even direct job offers. Furthermore, conferences often include career fairs or job boards, providing another avenue to discover opportunities.

Many neuroscience jobs, especially in research, are found within universities and dedicated research institutions. These organizations typically have their own job boards, where they post vacancies for researchers, lab technicians, and administrative staff. Working in such environments offers the chance to be at the forefront of neuroscience research, contributing to advancements in the field. Additionally, these positions often provide opportunities for professional development and career progression within the institution.

Now that you've explored some of the top neuroscience careers, you are armed with knowledge to tackle your next career move.

If you're ready to take the next step, ZipRecruiter has neuroscience careers waiting for you to explore. Start your search on ZipRecruiter today and move one step closer to your dream job in neuroscience.

Michael Gardon

Mike is our Founder, career coach, and resident expert on all things resume, hiring and work-life. He is author of The Break newsletter and host of The Break Podcast on Careercloud. He has seen everything from being hired (and fired) to hiring and managing hundreds of people over his career. Mike has also successfully navigated many career pivots. He is a former derivatives trader turned corporate consultant turned entrepreneur who also holds a Bachelors' Degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and an MBA from DePaul University in Chicago. Mike is often interviewed and quoted on career topics in major publications such as Business Insider, Forbes, USA Today, Yahoo Finance and Fox News. Mike resides in the beautiful midwest where he built a life around his family. Connect with Mike to talk purpose, career change, entrepreneurship and side hustles like Quotebook , which he built with his kids!

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What Jobs Can You Get With A Neuroscience Degree - A New Scientist Careers Guide

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What Jobs Can You Get With A Neuroscience Degree

What can you do with a neuroscience degree? There are dozens of areas within neuroscience , including social, behavioural, clinical, computational, developmental and cognitive neuroscience. You could specialise in any of these disciplines and become that type of neuroscientist.

Neuroscience principles can also be integral in other fields, some of which might seem quite unrelated. Popular career options for neuroscience graduates, other than academia, include medicine, clinical science , technology and engineering . 

Studying at one of the best universities for neuroscience in the UK as ranked by the Complete University Guide – a trusted league table website that considers factors such as entry requirements, student satisfaction, teaching quality and research output – could improve your chances of landing a job in a field you desire. Some great places to study include Oxford, Bath and Lancaster.

Often, neuroscience is a subject in which you can specialise during a biomedical sciences degree.

This article will highlight the top three highest-paying jobs available to those with a neuroscience degree for the following sectors: medicine, clinical science, technology and engineering, and academic research.

With a neuroscience degree, you could study medicine at an undergraduate level, or enter an accelerated postgraduate course. Although you could become any type of doctor after medical school, your background in neuroscience puts you in an excellent position to pursue specialties focusing on brain sciences. Although NHS salaries are standardised for all specialties in the UK, some offer higher private earning potential.

• Neurosurgeon

Job role: A neurosurgeon operates on the central nervous system, i.e. the brain and spinal cord, typically specialising in one or the other. It is a highly rewarding career as you treat issues such as tumours, congenital conditions and head or spinal injury, thus improving and saving lives. This also makes it a demanding job, however, as you must work nights and weekends with significant on-call commitment.

Route: Neurosurgery is an extremely competitive specialty, and you should start building your portfolio as soon as you can once you start medical school. Other than doing well academically and winning prizes, try finding a clinician who could be your mentor. They can help you publish and present papers, as well as guide you in the right direction. You should also join relevant societies and professional bodies.

After medical school, you will complete two years of foundation training, during which you can continue building your portfolio, sit relevant exams and submit your application for a specialty training post in neurosurgery, which typically lasts eight years.

Average salary (experienced): £131,964; can be doubled with private work

• Medical Doctor

Job role: Medical specialties in which your neuroscience degree would be appreciated include neurology, clinical neurophysiology and neuroradiology. A neurologist treats neurological diseases, such as Parkinson’s Disease, Alzheimer’s, epilepsy and movement disorders. 

Clinical neurophysiologists focus more on assessing function of the nervous system using technologies such as electroencephalogram (EEG), electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies. Neuroradiologists are radiologists who subspecialise in brain imaging and interpret scans obtained from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT).

Route: Although not as competitive as neurosurgery, these specialties, particularly neurology and radiology, are some of the most popular training programmes. As such, you should still try to get publications and work on your portfolio early on and join relevant societies. 

Neurology and clinical neurophysiology require you to first complete internal medicine training (IMT) after foundation, whereas radiology can be commenced straight after foundation training.

Average salary (experienced): £131,964; increased by an additional 50 per cent, 44 per cent and 43 per cent with private work in neurology, radiology and neurophysiology, respectively

• Psychiatrist

Job role: A psychiatrist is a doctor who treats mental health disorders. They can offer talking therapies and psychotherapy, as well as medication. There are several subspecialties within psychiatry.

If you wish to work with kids and young adults, you can opt for child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS). With an interest in forensic science, you could go into forensic psychiatry to investigate how mental health conditions can intersect with legal proceedings. Your neuroscience degree could be particularly useful if you wish to become a neuropsychiatrist.

Route: Psychiatry is becoming more and more competitive, and as a result you should look at portfolio requirements for specialty training early on in medical school. After foundation training, the training pathway involves core psychiatry training followed by your desired subspecialty.

Average salary (experienced): £131,964; increased by an additional 20 to 24 per cent with private work depending on subspecialty

Clinical Science

This is a broad field, encompassing dozens of career options within healthcare which don’t require a formal medical licence. In the UK, clinical science is divided into four recognised branches in which you may work: life sciences , physiological sciences, physical sciences and clinical engineering , and bioinformatics . You could also make a difference on a larger scale by applying your expertise in public health.  

• Clinical Scientist

Job role: There are over 50 specialisms you can work in as a clinical scientist , and your duties will depend on which role you chose. Working as a genetic counsellor will, for example, involve lots of direct patient contact, whereas working in biochemistry or histopathology will involve more time in a laboratory. Regardless of the field, you could do research and help design new therapies or diagnostics.

Furthermore, you could specialise in neurophysiology; this is different from clinical neurophysiology as you won’t be a medical doctor, and hence will be more involved in the technical and procedural aspect. However, you may still collaborate with clinical neurophysiologists and other allied healthcare professionals.

Route: After your neuroscience degree, you must enrol onto the NHS Scientist Training Programme (STP) and register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) to be able to work in the NHS as well as the private sector. Completion of the Higher Specialist Scientist Training (HSST) will award you with consultant status within your field.

Average salary (experienced): £69,000  

• Neuropsychologist

Job role: Psychologists apply their knowledge of the human mind and behaviour and employ their excellent communication skills to help individuals deal with mental health issues and general problems in life. You could specialise in neuropsychology which aims to further understand the complex interplay between biological , psychological and social factors.

Route: Although you normally need to complete a psychology degree accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), neuroscientists are still more than capable of becoming psychologists, especially neuropsychologists. You must first complete a psychology conversion course approved by the BPS, obtain Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) and register with the HCPC. 

After some work experience, you can complete postgraduate training in clinical neuropsychology to become a Chartered Psychologist and then undertake the BPS Qualification in Clinical Neuropsychology (QiCN).

Average salary (experienced): £57,000  

• Speech and Language Therapist

Job role: Speech and language pathologists are healthcare workers who help people with communication and swallowing difficulties. They play a crucial role in the rehabilitation of stroke and brain injury patients, as well as children with neurodevelopmental delays or eating and swallowing problems. They may also be involved in clinical research to devise new diagnostic methods and therapies.

Route: The typical route is to complete a speech and language therapy degree approved by the HCPC and the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT). Nonetheless, after your neuroscience degree, you could undertake an approved fast-track postgraduate course in speech and language therapy to start working in the NHS.

Average salary (experienced): £50,000

Technology and Engineering

Modern technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) , machine learning (ML) and neural networks are aiming to replicate the structure and function of the human brain. As such, an engineer with a solid understanding of human brain function is what many employers in this field are looking for, and your degree can give you a competitive edge.  

• AI/ML Engineer

Job role: AI and ML are newer technologies in the field of data science. These methods automate mundane and repetitive tasks, reducing the need for human input. As an AI/ML engineer, you will feed algorithms with large datasets so they can independently learn patterns and make predictions.

Route: Try to pick mathematical or computer science subjects as part of your neuroscience degree where possible; alternatively, you could learn coding and data science principles on your own online. A postgraduate qualification in data science with AI/ML is highly advisable as it is an incredibly competitive field. As you reach seniority, you could become a director, a consultant engineer or move into academia.

Average salary (experienced): £82,500

• Cyber Security Professional

Job role: Cyber security professionals investigate commercial, industrial, or political cyber crime. Their work ranges from identifying espionage and terrorist activity to securing IT software and hardware against potential hacks for businesses. You may need to work together with law enforcement and in court.

Route: As with data science, you require a good grasp of computer science and coding skills, which may be picked up in your own time or as part of your course. A postgraduate degree in cyber security is recommended to maximise your employability. With experience, you could lead your own cyber security firm, work as a senior security official for the government or become a consultant.

Average salary (experienced): £60,000  

• Robotics Engineer

Job role: Robotics engineering relies heavily on AI and ML. Engineers devise plans, build the hardware, and programme the software for self-learning machines. Testing and troubleshooting any technical difficulties also form part of their duties. These robots may be used in a variety of settings, such as healthcare , automobiles, manufacturing and for environmental purposes.

Route: Hopeful engineers normally have a degree in an engineering discipline or maths, but a neuroscientist also has great potential to excel in this field. Again, try to educate yourself on engineering and data science principles early on and undertake a postgraduate degree or internship in robotics. As you become more senior, you could take on managerial roles, move into consultancy or venture into academia.

Average salary (experienced): £54,000

Academic Research

Neuroscience is one of the most exciting and rapidly evolving disciplines in the science. Despite many recent breakthroughs, there is still much that we don’t understand about the brain, and so more cutting-edge research needs to be done. If this is an area you are interested in, you should become active in a local neuroscience institute and join the British Neuroscience Association (BNA) to learn more.

• Professor of Neuroscience

Job role: As a professor at a university, you will be lecturing the next generation on a specific subdiscipline, such as cognitive neuroscience, as well as conducting high-impact research within your niche. You will also spend time travelling, attending conferences and presenting your research.

Route: Following your neuroscience degree, you will need to complete postgraduate qualifications, ultimately leading to a PhD. Afterwards, you will work as a postdoc and get involved with quality research, lecturing and supervising students. After years of experience, you could apply for professorship and become a senior lecturer.

Average salary (experienced): £55,000; over £100,000 at some universities e.g. Oxford

• Neuropharmacologist

Job role: Pharmacologists study the effects of drugs on the human body on a molecular and physiological level; neuropharmacologists are subspecialists who focus on substances acting on the central nervous system. They help develop new drugs and test their safety and efficacy in clinical trials .

Route: A pharmacology degree is the gold standard, but neuroscience courses often include pharmacology modules that you could take. Try to gain research or industrial experience in pharmacology, and ideally complete a master’s to boost your job prospects. With experience, you could manage a pharmaceutical firm or lead clinical trials. To become an academic pharmacologist, a PhD is essential. 

Average salary (experienced): £55,000  

• Research Scientist

Job role: Research scientists plan and perform experiments within their area of expertise. They then document their results, write up papers and present their findings at conferences. Their duties also involve writing proposals and applying for grants to fund their research. With a neuroscience degree, you could work in any neuroscience or related field.

Route: After your primary degree, you could start working as a lab technician or junior scientist. You should do a master's or PhD to enhance your employability. As you become more senior, you could start conducting more independent research and work your way up to senior research fellow and lead your own team or lab. You could also obtain chartered scientist status to advance your career.

Average salary (experienced): £48,000

Neuroscience isn’t only one of the most interesting subjects to study, but also one that is highly relevant in various sectors of today’s world. You could follow the traditional route to academia and contribute to the scientific community without ever getting bored. Alternatively, you could explore the application of neuroscientific principles in human health and disease, and even in the tech sector .

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