A challenging yet rewarding major, neuroscience can be an excellent starting point to a career in medicine, psychology, or research science. Undergraduate neuroscience majors typically pursue advanced degrees in neuroscience or a related field like psychology, and many choose to go to medical school and pursue a career as a physician or surgeon.
The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into neuroscience is poised to open a new frontier of career opportunities for neuroscience majors, fundamentally expanding the scope and depth of the field.
Here is a list of 12 jobs for neuroscience majors:
Most Common Jobs for a Neuroscience Major
1. Physician
It is very common for a neuroscience major to attend medical school and pursuing a career as a physician. Physicians, or medical doctors, are professionals who examine and diagnose patients, and treat injury and illness. The term “physician” refers to a wide range of medical practitioners that may include family and general doctors who treat a range of everyday conditions and illnesses, pediatricians who treat children and young adults, general internists who provide nonsurgical treatment for problems that affect internal organs, or a wide variety of specialists who have expertise and treat specific organs or conditions. Becoming a physician requires a lot of time and hard work. After you get your bachelor’s degree, you’re going to need to take the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT), attend medical school for 4 years and earn a medical degree, and then complete a residency program, which typically takes 3-7 years depending on your specialty.
Median annual wage: Varies according to specialty; $198,740 for family physician
Common entry-level degree: Doctor of Medicine/Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine
Likelihood that robots will take your job: 0%
2. Psychiatrist
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who work in the area of mental health. Psychiatrists offer services like counseling and therapy and prescribe treatments for mental illnesses and disorders, which may include medication. Psychiatrists may work in hospitals or have a private practice. Because psychiatrists are medical doctors, in order to become one, you will need to complete medical school, residency, and for certain specialists, a one- or two-year fellowship.
Median annual wage: $208,000
Common entry-level degree: Doctor of Medicine/Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine
Likelihood that robots will take your job: N/A
3. Psychologist
Many people don’t know what differentiates a psychiatrist and psychologist, but the distinction is quite significant. Whereas psychiatrists are medical doctors (M.D.s) who have attended medical school, psychologists are not. As a result, the two practices tend to be quite different. Psychologists are typically trained more rigorously in treating patients using non-drug therapies like psychotherapy, and in most states, psychologists are not allowed to prescribe drugs. Psychologists may work in a variety of different settings. Most psychologists are clinical psychologists who have a private practice or work in a health care institution. Others may be employed by a school, business, or other organization to provide mental health services to students or employees. Others may assist law enforcement as forensic psychologists. Most psychologists have a doctorate in psychology (Ph.D.) or a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) degree, and a doctorate and licensure are necessary to practice clinical psychology, although a master’s degree can be sufficient for some positions in schools or businesses.
Median annual wage: $77,030
Common entry-level degree: Master’s/Doctorate degree or Doctor of Psychology
Likelihood that robots will take your job: 0.5%
Specialized/Unique Jobs for a Neuroscience Major
4. Neurosurgeon
Neurosurgeons fall under the broad category of physicians, but these doctors possess a rare level of expertise in treating conditions of the nervous system. Neurosurgeons treat injuries, illnesses or diseases of the brain, spinal cord and peripheral nerves through surgical methods. Neurosurgeons must be able to spend focus for long periods of time while in surgery, and must have excellent hand-eye coordination, so that they can perform incredibly precise microsurgery.
This is a job for only the most ambitious neuroscientists. In order to become a neurosurgeon, you will have to complete medical school, complete a year-long internship in general surgery, complete a neurosurgery residency (which may take 5-7 years), and in some cases, complete a post-residency fellowship to specialize in a specific area. Because there are relatively few neurosurgeons, they tend to work long hours and are given an inordinate amount of responsibility and duties. They are also paid handsomely for their work; neurosurgeons are among the highest-paid doctors.
Becoming a neurosurgeon is likely the highest paid profession for any neuroscience major, but it is a long haul!
Median annual wage: $208,000
Common entry-level degree: Doctor of Medicine/Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine
Likelihood that robots will take your job: 0.4%
5. Speech-Language Pathologist
Speech-language pathologists, also called speech therapists, work with patients of all ages who struggle with communication or swallowing disorders. They are trained to evaluate speech, language and swallowing ability, provide diagnoses, and carry out treatment plans. Speech-language therapists must have at minimum a master’s degree from a program that is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA). Aspiring speech-language pathologists will also need to complete 400 hours of supervised clinical experience, complete a Clinical Fellowship Year (CFY), and pass the Praxis exam before they can become licensed.
Median annual wage: $77,610
Common entry-level degree: Master’s degree
Likelihood that robots will take your job: 0.6%
6. Psychometrist
Psychometrists are professionals who are trained to administer and score psychological tests. The majority of their job involves gathering data and calculating statistics based on that data. The majority are employed in research facilities, testing companies, and universities, although it is also common to find psychometrists working in health care facilities, law enforcement and criminal justice facilities, and even the military. It is common for psychometrists to have a doctorate in a related field. There are very few graduate-level psychometrics degree programs, so most psychometrists enter the discipline through a related field, such as statistics or psychology. Aspiring psychometrists will want to take coursework in mathematics and statistics as well as psychology and neuroscience.
Median annual wage: $84,060
Common entry-level degree: Doctorate degree
Likelihood that robots will take your job: 22%
Non-Traditional Neuroscience Major Jobs
7. Biotech or Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
If you are interested in neuroscience, but you aren’t interested in pursuing a job in an explicitly scientific field, you might consider becoming a sales representative for a pharmaceutical or biotech company. Sales representatives work on behalf of a pharmaceutical or biotechnology company to sell their products, whether it be medications or medical devices, to doctors, physicians and hospitals. Becoming a sales representative only requires a bachelor’s degree, though many pursue additional education as well.
If you are considering sales as a career path, consider taking elective courses in business writing, public speaking and marketing if they are offered at your school.
Median annual wage: $78,830
Common entry-level degree: Bachelor’s degree
Likelihood that robots will take your job: 25%
8. Science Journalist
If you are interested in science but would like to write for a living, a neuroscience major can prepare you well for a career as a science journalist. Science journalists may write about all branches of science for newspapers, magazines or websites. While there is no degree requirement to become a writer, a degree in neuroscience or another field of science can give you the essential knowledge to cover your subjects accurately.
If this is a career path that you are considering, make sure to take some elective courses in creative writing and journalism. Also, getting your independent research project published can make your resume stand out if you choose this career path.
Median annual wage: $39,370
Common entry-level degree: Bachelor’s degree
Likelihood that robots will take your job: 11%
9. Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counselor
Substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors work with individuals who are struggling with substance addiction or other problem behaviors, such as eating disorders, conduct disorder, and attention deficit disorder, among others. These professionals are trained to evaluate patients’ mental health and provide diagnoses when appropriate. They also work with individuals and their families to devise treatment plans and help them cope with recovery and build relationships. The education requirements to become a substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselor vary by state, but most enter the field with at least a bachelor’s degree.
If you have a bachelor’s degree in neuroscience, you will likely want to pursue further education, and probably a master’s degree in counseling or psychology. Also, if you are interested in pursing this as a career pat, you should take courses in behavioral neuroscience which will help you understand how the brain circuits are involved in processes fear, stress, and addiction. An understanding of Behavioral neuroscience is important for this career oath in that it aims to unravel the complex mechanisms underlying substance abuse and other disorders.
Median annual wage: $43,300
Common entry-level degree: Bachelor’s/Master’s degree
Likelihood that robots will take your job: 3%
Other Jobs for a Neuroscience Major
10. Neuroimaging technician
Neuroimaging technicians specialize in producing medical images of the brain using a variety of tests, such as positron emission tomography (PET), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans. These technicians are trained to handle and maintain a variety of brain scanning technologies, process imaging using neuroimaging software, collect and organize data, and sometimes assist in brain imaging analysis. Education requirements vary based on the opening, but typically employers look for applicants with at least a bachelor’s degree, though sometimes they will target applicants with master’s degrees. Be sure to take any systems neuroscience classes that are offered as part or your core neuroscience major requirements if you pursue this career path.
Median annual wage: $69,930
Common entry-level degree: Bachelor’s/Master’s degree
Likelihood that robots will take your job: 90%
11. College Professor
As with many students in the sciences, many neuroscience majors go on to become professors of their discipline. Being a college professor is a great option for neuroscientists, as you can nurture and inspire the next generation of scientists while also conducting your own research. To earn a job teaching at the post-secondary level, you will need at least a master’s degree, but you will typically need a doctorate for a full-time tenure-track professorship. Consider taking elective courses in education if you are thinking to pursuing this career path. Also, if your school offers independent research this will help you deveolp the skills you will need for a PHD thesis later.
Median annual wage: $77,190
Common entry-level degree: Master’s/Doctorate degree
Likelihood that robots will take your job: 3%
12. Medical Research Scientist
Medical research scientists conduct research and perform experiments with the goal of understanding and improving human health. Many work on teams with other medical researchers, technicians and students to design and conduct studies, or develop new technologies or methods to understand and treat human diseases. Generally, medical scientists have a doctorate in a life science or subfield of biology. Some may also have medical degrees.
Median annual wage: $96,070
Common entry-level degree: Master’s/Doctorate degree
Likelihood that robots will take your job: 0.5%
Famous Neuroscience Students
- Richard W. Aldrich, neuroscientist
- Gregory Berns, neuroeconomist
- Mayim Bialik, actress
- David Eagleman, neuroscientist and science communicator
- Ze Frank, online personality
- Sam Harris, neuroscientist and public intellectual
- Susan Hockfield, neuroscientist and university administrator
- David Marr, neuroscientist
- Kiki Sanford, neurophysiologist and science communicator
- Gazi Yasargil, neurosurgeon
AI Boosts Demand for Neuroscience Expertise!
If you are a neuroscience major, AI has made your skills more valuable.
The integration of Artificial Intelligence into the field of neuroscience is not only transforming the landscape of research and clinical practice but is also creating new job opportunities for neuroscience majors.
These emerging positions, ranging from neuroinformatics specialists and AI-driven therapeutic developers to cognitive modelers and brain-computer interface engineers, signify a shift towards a more interconnected approach to understanding neural processes and treating neurological disorders. For neuroscience majors, this evolution means engaging with AI technologies to uncover novel insights into brain function, develop innovative treatments, and ultimately contribute to the advancement of both neuroscience and AI. The convergence of these disciplines not only enriches the traditional landscape of neuroscience careers but also underscores the transformative potential of AI in enhancing our understanding of the complex neural networks that define human cognition and behavior.
These roles leverage the unique intersection of AI technology with the intricate complexities of the human brain, opening up exciting career paths that blend computational science with neuroscience. Here are several jobs that AI is expected to create for neuroscience majors:
- AI-Neuroscience Researcher – These professionals focus on developing and using AI algorithms to analyze neural data, simulate neural processes, or understand brain-computer interfaces. Their work may involve creating models that can predict neurological outcomes or assist in decoding brain activity. This is a logical step into the AI world for any neuroscience major.
- Neuroinformatics Scientist – Neuroinformatics involves the integration of information across various scales and formats of neuroscience data. Professionals in this role use AI to manage, analyze, and interpret large datasets such as genetic sequences, neural imaging data, and cognitive performance metrics, aiming to uncover new insights into brain function and disorders.
- Computational Neuroscientist – Computational neuroscientists develop mathematical models and computational methods to understand the principles that govern the structure and dynamics of the nervous system. With the aid of AI, they simulate complex neural systems to predict behavior, understand neural processing, and design experiments in silico.
- Neural Data Analyst – These analysts specialize in processing and interpreting data from various neural imaging and recording techniques. Using AI and machine learning, they extract meaningful patterns and insights from complex datasets, contributing to breakthroughs in understanding neural mechanisms and disorders.
- Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) Engineer – BCI engineers work on the development and improvement of interfaces that connect the human brain with computer systems. AI plays a crucial role in enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of BCIs, enabling applications such as prosthetic control, rehabilitation after neurological injuries, and augmenting human capabilities. Companies like Neurolink provide another career path if your are a neuroscience major.
- Neuroethicist with AI Focus – As AI technologies increasingly intersect with neuroscience, there’s a growing need for professionals who can navigate the ethical, legal, and social implications of these advancements. Neuroethicists with a focus on AI address concerns related to privacy, consent, and the moral implications of neural technologies and AI applications in neuroscience.
- AI-enhanced Diagnostic and Therapeutic Developer – Professionals in this role design and develop AI-based tools and applications for diagnosing neurological disorders and personalizing therapeutic interventions. This includes software for analyzing brain scans, algorithms for predicting disease progression, and systems for monitoring and adjusting treatments in real-time.
- Neurotechnology Innovator – This role involves creating new technologies and devices that apply AI to solve neurological problems or enhance neural function. Innovations may include advanced neural prosthetics, smart neuropharmaceuticals, and AI-powered neural stimulation devices.
- Custom Educational Content Creator – Using insights from cognitive neuroscience and AI, these professionals develop personalized educational programs and tools that adapt to individual learning styles and cognitive profiles. Their work supports more effective learning and cognitive development across various populations.
- Digital Mental Health Specialis – Leveraging AI, digital mental health specialists develop and implement apps and platforms for mental health assessment, monitoring, and intervention. They focus on creating accessible, data-driven solutions for improving mental well-being and treating psychiatric conditions.
As AI continues to evolve and integrate with neuroscience, the demand for skilled professionals who can navigate both fields is expected to grow. A Neuroscience major with an interest and expertise in AI is uniquely positioned to drive innovation and make significant contributions to our understanding and treatment of neurological conditions.
This fusion is creating roles that require a nuanced understanding of both the intricate workings of the human brain and the sophisticated algorithms that underpin AI.
So if you are a neuroscience major, make sure to take every AI electives you can now! And in any case be sure to take whatever courses that are offered in computational neuroscience. Taking computational neuroscience courses offers students deep insights into the principles of neural computation that are directly applicable to AI development. By understanding how the brain processes information, students can contribute to the creation of more efficient and adaptive AI algorithms, inspired by the brain’s own mechanisms. These courses not only provide a solid theoretical foundation for machine learning and AI but also encourage interdisciplinary thinking, combining biology, mathematics, and computer science. Furthermore, they foster an appreciation for the ethical considerations of AI technologies. In essence, computational neuroscience equips students with a unique blend of skills and perspectives, enhancing their ability to innovate in the AI field while considering its broader implications on society.
AI has already had a big impact on Neuroscience
As a Neuroscience Major, you’ve likely witnessed firsthand the transformative effects Artificial Intelligence (AI) has had on the tools and methodologies used in research projects.
AI’s impact is particularly profound within cognitive neuroscience, where it is revolutionizing how neuroscience research is conducted, enabling the development of personalized cognitive interventions, and deepening our understanding of human cognition. Here’s how AI is reshaping cognitive science:
- Advanced Research Tools: AI, through machine learning and natural language processing algorithms, plays a critical role in analyzing complex cognitive data. This capability is instrumental in deciphering patterns within large datasets, such as those derived from brain imaging studies or behavioral analyses, paving the way for groundbreaking insights into cognitive processes and mental health disorders. This is a major development for the field of cognitive neuroscience.
- Enhanced Understanding of Human Cognition: AI models that emulate cognitive functions offer a fresh perspective for investigating the intricacies of human thought, language, and problem-solving abilities. These simulations provide valuable hypotheses on the neural mechanisms underlying cognition and contribute to the theoretical progress in cognitive science. This will ultimately result in a deeper understanding of the human condition in the field of cognitive neuroscience.
- Neuroinformatics and Big Data: The role of AI in managing and analyzing the extensive data produced by modern cognitive neuroscience research cannot be overstated. From genetic data to neural imaging outputs, AI is essential in synthesizing a comprehensive view of cognitive neuroscience that incorporates biological, psychological, and environmental dimensions.
- Automation and Efficiency: AI technologies, particularly machine learning (ML) algorithms, are becoming increasingly adept at processing and analyzing vast datasets far beyond human capability. For example, in molecular biology, this has translated to more efficient gene sequencing, identification of biomarkers for neurological diseases, and understanding complex interactions within the brain at a molecular level.
In essence, AI has already significantly altered the landscape of cognitive neuroscience, equipping researchers with powerful tools to advance our understanding of the human brain and mind.
Conclusion
In conclusion, pursuing a neuroscience major opens a myriad of pathways into diverse and impactful careers ranging from medicine and psychology to cutting-edge research in both academia and industry.
If you are considering a major in neuroscience, there are plenty of career paths to take. The list of jobs for neuroscience majors highlights the broad applicability and demand for skills developed through this rigorous field of study. From the frontlines of medical practice as physicians and psychiatrists to specialized roles like neurosurgeons and neuroimaging technicians, neuroscience majors find themselves well-equipped to tackle complex challenges in healthcare and beyond.
Moreover, the emergence of Artificial Intelligence in neuroscience is not just a futuristic notion but a present reality, enhancing research in everything from molecular biology, cognitive science, and organic chemistry. AI’s integration promises to redefine job roles, necessitating a blend of traditional neuroscience knowledge with computational skills and ethical considerations.
Whether aspiring to contribute to neuropharmacology, develop AI-driven cognitive interventions, or engage in the ethical discourse of AI applications in neuroscience, a neuroscience major serves as an excellent foundation. This major not only prepares students for a range of rewarding careers but also places them at the forefront of exploring the vast potentials of the human brain and behavior in an increasingly AI-integrated world.
In short a major in neuroscience is not only a versatile major, but is also a safe career in an AI-dominated world.
To explore options for other majors, click here.
