Brain Facts

The Society for Neuroscience is the world’s largest organization of scientists
and physicians dedicated to understanding the brain,spinal cord and periph-
eral nervous system.

Neuroscientists investigate the molecular and cellular levels of the ner-
vous system;the neuronal systems responsible for sensory and motor function;
and the basis of higher order processes, such as cognition and emotion.This
research provides the basis for understanding the medical fields that are con-
cerned 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 34,000 members.Regular members are residents of Canada,Mexico
and the United States—where more than 100 chapters organizelocal activities.
The Society’s membership also includes many scientists from throughout the
world,particularly Europe and Asia.
The mission of the Society is to:

∫Advance the understanding of the brain and the nervous system by bringing
together scientists of diverse backgrounds, by facilitating the integration of
research directed at all levels of biological organization, and by encouraging
translational research and the application of new scientific knowledge to develop
improved disease treatments and cures.

∫Provide professional development activities, information, and educational
resources for neuroscientists at all stages of their careers, including under-
graduates, graduates, and post doctoral fellows, and increase participation of
scientists from a diversity of cultural and ethnic backgrounds.

∫Promote public information and general education about the nature of sci-
entific discovery and the results and implications of the latest neuroscience
research. Support active and continuing discussions on ethical issues relating
to the conduct and outcomes of neuroscience research.

∫Inform legislators and other policy makers about new scientific knowledge
and recent developments in neuroscience research and their implications for
public policy, societal benefit, and continued scientific progress.

The exchange of scientific information occurs at an annual fall meeting
that presents more than 15,000 reports of new scientific findings and includes
more than 28,000 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 ofNeuroscience,contains arti-
cles spanning the entire range of neuroscience research and has subscribers
worldwide. A series of courses, workshops and symposia held at the annual
meeting promote the education of Society members.Neuroscience Quarterly,a
print 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.

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