Neuroscience and Pharmacology

The Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology provides professional training for health science students and participates with other departments in educational and research activities such as the Medical Scientist Training Program, the Physician Scientist Training Pathway, the Molecular Medicine Program, the Neuroscience Program, the Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, the Abboud Cardiovascular Research Center, the UI Fraternal Order of Eagles Diabetes Research Center, and the Iowa Neuroscience Institute.

The department was a pioneer in offering pharmacology to undergraduate students. Currently, three courses are offered for undergraduates: PCOL:2220 Drug Use and Abuse for those with little or no science background; and PCOL:3101 Pharmacology I: A Drug's Fantastic Journey and PCOL:3102 Pharmacology II: Mechanisms of Drug Action for those with some science background. These courses emphasize the mechanisms of drug action and give students a basis for rational decisions concerning the use of drugs.

Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology graduate study includes both didactic and research experience. Students interested in doctoral studies should apply under the umbrella program in Biomedical Science (pharmacology subprogram). Qualified students may pursue the combined MD/PhD in the university's Medical Scientist Training Program.

Pre- and postdoctoral students pursue research training in all areas of neuroscience and pharmacology in the department in preparation for career opportunities in academia, government, and industry.