Duke Impact Neuroscience Program

PROJECT SUMMARY The purpose of the Impact Neuroscience Program is to enhance rigorous scientific training in neuroscience at Duke University and modernize graduate education to meet the demands of a rapidly changing scientific and professional landscape. Traditional mentoring models are no longer sufficient to prepare students for the evolving workforce, where advances in artificial intelligence, data science, and translational applications are reshaping opportunities. This program equips graduate students, together with their peers and mentors, to succeed in both academic research and emerging careers in industry and entrepreneurial ventures. The program includes targeted neuroscience training and professional development activities such as advanced methods training within faculty labs, specialized instruction in data science and open science, and structured participation in a professional seminar series that provides resources for career development. In parallel, the program emphasizes community-wide practices and workshops that strengthen mentoring, streamline career planning, and improve the overall training infrastructure at Duke. In addition to activities with strong evidentiary support, the program will test and evaluate new interventions informed by the neuroscience of motivated learning. We predict improved retention, training efficiency, and long-term performance for the graduate student fellows, as well as broader benefits for the neuroscience community, including enhanced productivity and research outcomes across host labs.