Brain facts

The Society for Neuroscience is the world’s largest organization of sci-

entists and physicians dedicated to understanding the brain, spinal cord

and peripheral nervous system.

Neuroscientists investigate the molecular and cellular levels of the

nervous system; the neuronal systems responsible for sensory and

motor function; and the basis of higher order processes, such as cog-

nition and emotion. This research provides the basis for understand-

ing the medical fields that are concerned with treating nervous system

disorders. These medical specialties include neurology, neurosurgery,

psychiatry and ophthalmology.

Founded in 1970, the Society has grown from 500 charter members

to more than 29,000 members. Regular members are residents of Canada,

Mexico and the United States—where more than 100 chapters organize

local activities. The Society’s membership also includes many scientists

from throughout the world, particularly Europe and Asia.

The purposes of the Society are to:

∫ Advance the understanding of the nervous system by bringing together

scientists from various backgrounds and by encouraging research in all

aspects of neuroscience.

∫ Promote education in the neurosciences.

∫ Inform the public about the results and implications of new research.

The exchange of scientific information occurs at an annual fall

meeting that presents more than 14,000 reports of new scientific

findings and includes more than 25,000 participants. This meeting, the

largest of its kind in the world, is the arena for the presentation of new

results in neuroscience.

The Society’s bimonthly journal, The Journal of Neuroscience, con-

tains articles spanning the entire range of neuroscience research and

has subscribers worldwide. A series of courses, workshops and sym-

posia held at the annual meeting promote the education of Society

members. The Neuroscience Newsletter informs members about Society

activities.

A major mission of the Society is to inform the public about the

progress and benefits of neuroscience research. The Society provides

information about neuroscience to school teachers and encourages its

members to speak to young people about the human brain and nervous system