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The Developmental and Brain Sciences (DBS) PhD program at UMass Boston offers an intensive research curriculum centered on studying cognition, perception, and behavior through the lens of evolving neural and hormonal systems. Faculty members conduct laboratory research spanning cognitive development, psychophysics, neuroendocrinology, and behavioral genetics. Students can pursue either a cognitive track, examining evolving perceptual and cognitive functions, or a behavioral track, studying the neural and hormonal foundations of behavior.
Through this program, you will:
Master developmental theories, cognitive functions, and neurodevelopment while examining how brain architecture influences behavior throughout human growth
Develop specialized research skills and analytical techniques to design innovative studies that push boundaries in developmental neuroscience and contribute meaningful discoveries to the field
Hone analytical reasoning, presentation abilities, and teamwork competencies to articulate complex ideas, pursue cross-disciplinary research, and build connections between brain science and other disciplines
Professional Pathways
Pursue scientific investigations in academic or research settings, exploring diverse facets of developmental neuroscience. Educate and guide university students while advancing knowledge through scholarly research. Alternatively, examine the neurological basis of mental functions like focus, recall, and judgment as a neuroscience specialist. These represent just some potential directions.
Potential career outcomes include:
Research Investigator
Academic Faculty Member
Clinical Neuropsychologist
Developmental Psychology Specialist
Cognitive Neuroscience Researcher