Neuroscience

The Division of Neuroscience focuses on the biology and function of the nervous system across its many operations.  Areas of interest range from neurological structure and function and the genetic and molecular levels, through the physiology of the nervous system and the neuronal and synaptic levels, to the expression of healthy functioning and disease in behavior, cognition, and learning.

The Division also is dedicated to better understanding the development, dysfunction, and repair of the nervous system, as well as to the clinical and translational aspects of its research. A major portion of the Division’s research is conducted through the Institute for Neuroscience, an interdisciplinary Institute within the School of Medicine.

Mission

Our mission is to enhance brain health and reduce the burden of brain diseases in the RGV community by:

• Studying determinants and mechanisms of brain health and illness.
• Accelerating the adoption of promising innovative interventions.
• Educating and training the next generation of leaders in neuroscience.
• Engaging our South Texas community by promoting health equity, brain health and preventing brain diseases.

Vision

Our vision is to be a nationally and internationally recognized leader in innovative neuroscience research, education and training, scholarship, and community engagement.

Themes

Research: Perform advanced clinical, translational, basic and applied neuroscience research that improves the health and well-being of people in the Rio Grande Valley and beyond.

Education: Educate and train the next generation of leaders in neuroscience, with special attention to underrepresented students.

Community Engagement: Engage the RGV community in a culture that addresses health disparities and promotes person- and people-centered brain health, inclusiveness, diversity, and cultural awareness, with a specific focus on Border Health and Hispanic Health.

Contribution to Clinical Care: Enhance the use of innovative and effective care models for brain diseases and facilitate the integration of neuroscience discoveries to improve patient care.