Frequently Asked Questions

Application

Am I a competitive applicant for STARTneuro?

Are you motivated to participate in a selective and rigorous neuroscience training program? Would you like to engage in a community of scholars who are enthusiastic about neuroscience? Do you want to get paid? if so, yes!

What email should use to apply?

You must use your UCSD email to log into AcademicWorks to apply for the program. Please reach out to admissions if you have not been assigned a UCSD email (termination @ucsd.edu)

How many references' contact information should I submit?

Only one contact information is needed and will be reviewed. Please do not submit multiple references through the application portal.

Who can be my reference for the application?

The reference can be from a professor, employer, or person in your community that you’ve interacted with closely (e.g., an athletic coach, a supervisor in a volunteer organization, a religious leader, etc.). This person should speak to your interest in a research career and your potential contributions to a neuroscience research training program.

Can I request an extension to submit the application?

No. Extensions or exceptions to the application deadlines will not be granted under any circumstances. Applicants are encouraged to plan accordingly.

How do I submit my application?

Once on Academic Works, applicants will need their UCSD SSO to log in. First, you'll be prompted to fill out the General Application. Then, you will see the STARTneuro application. Applicants should click the “Begin” button to access the STARTneuro application. The system will save your progress.

Summer Training Program

Can I take courses during the summer training program?

The STARTneuro summer program is intended to be a full-time course, packed with hands-on activities, lectures, and projects. Even during our hybrid summer, there won't be much time beyond the STARTneuro program for classes or other work. Please keep in mind that STARTneuro pays a stipend that is equivalent to full-time research work for the duration of the summer program.

Do I need to be in San Diego for the summer training program?

For Summer 2025, STARTneuro participants need to be in San Diego and be able to participate in person. This may change if COVID-related restrictions are reimposed on the campus community.

What is the time commitment for the Summer Training Program?

The summer training program is from Monday to Friday only. A typical day is 9 am -5 pm, with lectures and workshops in the morning, and lab work in the afternoon.

Will housing be provided for participants?

No, housing will not be provided. Participants are expected to make housing arrangments before the program begins.

What are the dates for the 2024 Summer Training Program?

The STARTneuro Summer Training Program will run from 7/15/24 - 9/6/24.

Miscellaneous

Can I participate in other structured research programs alongside STARTneuro?

STARTneuro includes a full-time summer program as well as 10 hours of paid research experience during the school year. If you are a STARTneuro scholar, you cannot participate in any other structured research programs including McNair, TRELS, or the Faculty Mentor Program. STARTneuro scholars are encouraged to participate in other activities such as the OASIS Transfer-to-Career program.