Continue in neuroscience research 

Many graduates continue with a PhD or work in academic, clinical or applied research. During the programme, you learn to formulate research questions, select appropriate methods, analyse data and present your findings. 

The knowledge and techniques you develop depend partly on your chosen track. These may include molecular and cellular methods, electrophysiology, imaging, behavioural research, computational modelling and the analysis of neural data.  

Careers beyond academia 

Your neuroscience expertise and research skills are also relevant to science-based organisations and public-sector roles. Possible career directions include: 

• research and development in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, food and nutrition, and other science-based organisations;  

• data analysis, scientific programming and innovation;  

• scientific consultancy and advisory roles;  

• science, health and research policy;  

• research funding and programme management;  

• education and science communication.  

Your eventual career direction will also depend on your chosen track, internships, electives and broader interests. 

Develop quantitative and transferable skills 

Throughout the programme, you learn to interpret scientific evidence and analyse complex research data. Depending on your track and electives, you may gain experience with statistics, programming, computational modelling, neural data analysis or deep learning. 

You also develop skills in scientific writing, presenting, critical thinking, project design and collaboration. These skills are valuable in research as well as consultancy, policy and other evidence-based roles.  

Build your professional network 

The Neurobiology tracks are embedded in research groups at the UvA’s Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences and connected to researchers at institutions such as Amsterdam UMC and the Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience. 

This research environment gives you opportunities to: 

• learn from active neuroscientists;  

• work with specialist methods and research facilities;  

• complete internships in the Netherlands or abroad;  

• meet researchers and professionals working in your field;  

• explore different research and career environments.  

These connections help you graduate with practical experience, professional contacts and a clearer understanding of the career paths available to you.  

Alumni experiences

Discover how graduates of the Neurobiology tracks have used their knowledge, research experience and professional skills in academic research and careers beyond academia.