[Grass Foundation](https://www.grassfoundation.org)

February 2026 (Application) | May–July 2026 (Course)

Full tuition and housing support; travel stipends available; course lasts 8 weeks.

Intensive hands-on course for researchers to master experimental approaches to neural mechanisms underlying behavior, perception, and cognition.

Limited to ~20 participants; highly competitive; open to graduate students, postdocs, and independent investigators.

--- ## Description This is an immersive eight-week laboratory and lecture program designed for researchers interested in the neural basis of behavior, perception, and cognition. The course integrates modern experimental approaches at the molecular, cellular, and organismal levels, with a curriculum structured in two-week cycles using diverse vertebrate and invertebrate model systems. Participants receive hands-on training in electrophysiology, neuroanatomy, quantitative data analysis, and other advanced techniques, culminating in the design and execution of original research projects—often leading to publishable findings. Daily lectures, workshops, and seminars by leading neuroscientists foster an intensive learning environment and collaborative research experience. --- ## Due Dates - **Application due (anticipated):** February 2026 - **Course dates (anticipated):** May–July 2026 *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Full tuition and housing are provided for all admitted participants. - Additional travel stipends are available to help offset travel costs. - The course duration is eight weeks. --- ## Eligibility - Open to graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and independent investigators. - Selection is highly competitive, with a typical class size of about 20 participants. - Applicants from diverse backgrounds and nationalities are encouraged. - Prior laboratory experience in neuroscience or related fields is recommended. --- ## Application Process - Applications are submitted online through the [Marine Biological Laboratory portal](https://join.mbl.edu/register/?id=bd2414bd-bf10-49e5-8323-29ed704f9292). - Required materials typically include: - Curriculum vitae (CV) - Statement of interest and research goals - Letters of recommendation - Academic transcripts (if applicable) - Finalists may be contacted for additional information or interviews. - Check the [official course page](https://www.mbl.edu/education/advanced-research-training-courses/course-offerings/neural-systems-behavior) for the most current details and application instructions. --- ## Additional Information - The course emphasizes learning through active research, with participants conducting original experiments and analyses. - Research projects from past cohorts have resulted in publications in leading scientific journals. - Instruction and mentorship are provided by internationally recognized neuroscientists. - The course includes daily lectures, hands-on laboratory sessions, and weekly seminars by guest experts. --- ## External Links - [Neural Systems & Behavior Course Details](https://www.mbl.edu/education/advanced-research-training-courses/course-offerings/neural-systems-behavior) - [Grass Foundation Programs](https://grassfoundation.org/grants-awards) - [Marine Biological Laboratory Advanced Research Training](https://www.mbl.edu/education/advanced-research-training-courses/course-offerings) --- ## Contact Information | Topic | Contact Link | |----------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------| | Grass Foundation | [Contact Grass Foundation](https://grassfoundation.org/contact-us/) | | Course Directors | [Lauren O’Connell, Stanford University](https://biology.stanford.edu/people/lauren-oconnell)
[Alberto Pereda, Albert Einstein College of Medicine](https://einsteinmed.edu/faculty/8028/alberto-pereda/) | | Course Administration| [MBL Education Contact](https://www.mbl.edu/education/contact) |

Neural Systems & Behavior

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