Welcome to Columbia's NB&B Program
The great challenge for science in the 21st century is to understand the mind in biological terms and Columbia has tried to position itself scientifically to meet that challenge.
– Eric Kandel
We offer a diverse set of research and academic experiences that reflect the interdisciplinary nature of neuroscience. Over one hundred faculty from two campuses combine coursework and experiential learning in basic, clinical and translational science, providing an exceptionally broadly based education.
We also foster an atmosphere of collaboration between investigators, theorists, and experimentalists, where students learn the value of a problem-oriented approach to research. Guidance and mentorship are an integral part of the Columbia experience.
We invite you to learn more about the Columbia University Doctoral Program in Neurobiology and Behavior.
The Doctoral Program in Neurobiology and Behavior trains its students in the exploration of the nervous system at the level of molecules, cells, development, circuits and systems, theory, and behavior.
Each entering student in the doctoral program interacts closely with program co-directors and program faculty during orientation, first semester courses, personal meetings, and a series of lab rotations.
The mentors at Columbia that participate in the Neurobiology and Behavior training program are both exceptionally accomplished and highly collegial. Learn more about faculty research interests by exploring these pages.
The breadth of opportunity in our program is enhanced by the fact that faculty mentors in the program have appointments across several different university departments.
News
Columbia Neuroscience Alumnus Andrew Fink Named 2026 Searle Scholar
Columbia University alumnus Andrew Fink has been named a 2026 Searle Scholars Program Scholar, a prestigious honor recognizing outstanding early-career scientists. Fink, who completed both his Ph.D. and postdoctoral training in neuroscience at Columbia University under Thomas M. Jessell and Richard Axel, was selected from over 200 nominees nationwide. He will receive $450,000 to support his innovative research on learning and synaptic plasticity, highlighting his continued impact in advancing our understanding of the brain.
Meta Unveils Wristband for Controlling Computers With Hand Gestures
Dr. Thomas Reardon co-founded CTRL-Labs with two NB&B alumni in 2015. Now with META, they develop wearable tech to improve user interaction with smart devices. Learn more here.
Dr. Zhenrui Liao Award Recipient for OSNAP
Columbia NB&B Alumni Dr. Zhenrui Liao is an award recipient for the 2025 NIH Outstanding Scholars in Neuroscience Award Program (OSNAP). To learn more about Dr. Liao and the award, please click here.